The Week 5 Fantasy Football Player Rankings Tiers are here, and with bye weeks kicking in, lineup decisions become narrower. From elite studs like to risky streamers fighting for a spot, this week’s tiers highlight who you can trust and who you should bench. Whether you’re grinding through start/sit calls in season-long leagues or looking for edges in DFS builds, our breakdown across QB, RB, WR, and TE gives you the clarity to make the right call and stay ahead of the curve.
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Quarterback | Running Back | Wide Receiver | Tight End
Quarterback | Start/Sit Tiers For Week 5 Rankings
Week 5 Quarterback Start/Sit Tiers (Quick-Guide)
Use these QB tiers to settle lineup disputes and finalize fantasy football decisions:
| Tier | Rank | Team | Player | Opponent | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | BUF | Josh Allen | vs NE | LOW |
| 2 | 2 | KC | Patrick Mahomes | @ JAX | LOW |
| 2 | 3 | PHI | Jalen Hurts | vs DEN | HIGH |
| 2 | 4 | LAC | Justin Herbert | vs WAS | LOW |
| 2 | 5 | NE | Drake Maye | @ BUF | AVG |
| 3 | 6 | NYJ | Justin Fields | vs DAL | LOW |
| 3 | 7 | IND | Daniel Jones | vs LV | LOW |
| 3 | 8 | WAS | Jayden Daniels | @ LAC | HIGH |
| 3 | 9 | DET | Jared Goff | @ CIN | LOW |
| 3 | 10 | DAL | Dak Prescott | @ NYJ | AVG |
| 4 | 11 | DEN | Bo Nix | @ PHI | AVG |
| 4 | 12 | TB | Baker Mayfield | @ SEA | AVG |
| 4 | 13 | ARI | Kyler Murray | vs TEN | LOW |
| 4 | 14 | NYG | Jaxson Dart | @ NO | AVG |
| 5 | 15 | SEA | Sam Darnold | vs TB | AVG |
| 5 | 16 | JAX | Trevor Lawrence | vs KC | HIGH |
| 5 | 17 | MIA | Tua Tagovailoa | @ CAR | HIGH |
| 5 | 18 | HOU | C.J. Stroud | @ BAL | LOW |
| 5 | 19 | MIN | Carson Wentz | @ CLE (LDN) | HIGH |
| 5 | 20 | LV | Geno Smith | @ IND | AVG |
| 6 | 21 | NO | Spencer Rattler | vs NYG | HIGH |
| 6 | 22 | CAR | Bryce Young | vs MIA | LOW |
| 6 | 23 | CIN | Jake Browning | vs DET | HIGH |
| 6 | 24 | TEN | Cam Ward | @ ARI | HIGH |
| 6 | 25 | CLE | Dillon Gabriel | vs MIN (LDN) | HIGH |
| 6 | 26 | BAL | Cooper Rush | vs HOU | HIGH |
Tier 1 | Week 5 The One and Only Josh Allen
Josh Allen | Buffalo Bills
Simply put, he’s the greatest fantasy QB we’ve ever had. Still QB1 in the game, and in our hearts, and he hasn’t missed a start since his rookie year.
Tier 2 | Elite Week 5 Quarterbacks
Patrick Mahomes | Kansas City Chiefs
We’re seeing the reemergence of the Chiefs’ passing attack, and the old, beautiful version of Patrick Mahomes we loved so dearly. His willingness to run has him right behind the elite rushing QBs, and his 4 TDs last week reminded us of his magic. With the run game averaging under 80 yards per game (without Mahomes), the offense will continue to lean on his arm to score points.
Jalen Hurts | Philadelphia Eagles
Still leading all QBs in rushing with 41 attempts, 179 yards, and 4 TDs, Jalen Hurts provides an elite rushing floor. Add in his ball security (no interceptions or fumbles), and you have a locked-in weekly QB1.
Justin Herbert | Los Angeles Chargers
The Giants’ ferocious defensive line wreaked havoc, and losing Joe Alt early disrupted everything. Justin Herbert saw 20 pressures on 44 drop-backs, forcing him out of rhythm, and into a 56% completion rate and 2 interceptions.
Drake Maye | New England Patriots
Drake Maye continues his breakout with nearly 1,000 yards passing and 9 total TDs, all on a league-best 74% completion rate. Three straight QB1 finishes, plus his rushing upside, lock him in as a must-start every week.
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Tier 3 | Week 5 QB1 Options with Some Risk
Start of the Week | Justin Fields | New York Jets
Returning from a concussion absence, Justin Fields delivered a QB4 finish, highlighted by a 43-yard rushing TD. With his electric playmaking and Garrett Wilson making highlight grabs, Fields carries QB1 overall potential every week.
Daniel Jones | Indianapolis Colts
The Colts suffered their first loss of the season as Daniel Jones played his worst game yet, tossing his first interceptions and rushing for -1 yards on a single carry. Expect a bounce-back at home against the Raiders.
Jayden Daniels | Washington Commanders
Set to return after missing two weeks with a knee injury, Jayden Daniels draws the 5th-ranked passing defense in Los Angeles. With Terry McLaurin’s status uncertain and Washington splitting pass/run nearly 50/50, Daniels’ ceiling depends on how much he can add with his legs.
Dak Prescott | Dallas Cowboys
Fresh off the QB1 overall finish in Week 4’s highest-scoring shootout, Dak Prescott now leads the league with 1,119 passing yards and 7 total scores. A middle-of-the-road Jets secondary awaits, allowing ~200 yards per game and 7 passing TDs so far.
Tiers 4 – 6 for Week 5 Fantasy Football Start/Sit Quarterbacks
Tier 4 | Week 5 Streaming-Level Quarterbacks
Bo Nix | Denver Broncos
My Start of the Week delivered his best game of the year with his first 300-yard outing and 3 TDs, finishing as the QB6. It wasn’t hard to call against a weak Cincinnati defense, but Philadelphia will provide a much tougher test in Week 5.
Baker Mayfield | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Seattle’s defense has been dominant against the run, holding teams under 90 yards per game and allowing no rushing TDs. With Bucky Irving potentially sidelined, Mayfield will be forced to pass more, but the Seahawks have only allowed 6 TDs total and fewer than 17 points per game.
Kyler Murray | Arizona Cardinals
Sitting at QB15, Kyler Murray is no longer a reliable weekly starter, averaging just 185 passing yards per game. However, with James Conner out for the season and Trey Benson on IR, Murray could get more opportunities against a defense giving up 30 ppg.
Jaxson Dart | New York Giants
The rookie’s debut looked every bit as sharp as his preseason, putting up a QB1 finish in his first regular-season game. Dart was active on the ground, rushing 10 times for 54 yards and a score, giving him a strong weekly floor. New Orleans has surrendered over 30 ppg, even while ranking middle of the pack in yardage allowed.
Tier 5 | Week 5 Quarterbacks with Average Risk
Sam Darnold | Seattle Seahawks
Since the Week 1 disaster, Darnold has settled into a steady QB2 pace, averaging just under 20 ppg over the last three weeks. With a star WR and a rookie target coming into his own, he has weapons. Tampa Bay’s run defense will force him to throw.
Tua Tagovailoa | Miami Dolphins
Losing Tyreek Hill for the season makes Tua’s job significantly harder. Carolina’s defense has been tough, allowing under 190 passing yards per game and just 4 passing TDs. It’s difficult to see him climbing from his current QB26 standing in this matchup.
Carson Wentz | Minnesota Vikings
Managers, don’t forget it’s another European game for Wentz and the Vikings (early kickoff chaos, ask Jaylen Warren owners). Wentz rode a league-high 54 dropbacks to a QB1 finish last week, but this Cleveland matchup projects much slower against the NFL’s 12th-ranked defense starting a rookie QB.
C.J. Stroud | Houston Texans
Stroud torched Tennessee for his best game of the season, and the setup is there for another spike. Baltimore is allowing over 400 yards and 30 points per game, making this a juicy matchup for managers willing to roll him out again.
Tier 6 | Desperate Week 5 Starting Quarterbacks
Jake Browning | Cincinnati Bengals
Averaging under 7 PPG, Browning has erased the confidence he built in 2023 when he rattled off 5 QB1 weeks in 6 games. Detroit’s defense won’t give him any favors, and it wouldn’t be shocking if the front office starts making calls after this one.
Cooper Rush | Baltimore Ravens
Rush has flashed in small doses before, but this week isn’t it. Houston’s defensive line will collapse Baltimore’s pocket all game, leaving Rush scrambling and fantasy managers searching for better options.
Click above to expand for all QB tiers.
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Quarterback | Running Back | Wide Receiver | Tight End
Running Backs | Start/Sit Tiers for Week 5 Rankings
Week 5 Running Back Start/Sit Tiers (Quick-Guide)
Use these RB tiers to settle lineup disputes and finalize fantasy football decisions:
| Tier | Rank | Team | Player | Opponent | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | DET | Jahmyr Gibbs | @ CIN | LOW |
| 1 | 2 | IND | Jonathan Taylor | vs LV | LOW |
| 1 | 3 | BUF | James Cook | vs NE | AVG |
| 2 | 4 | MIA | De’Von Achane | @ CAR | LOW |
| 2 | 5 | LAC | Omarion Hampton | vs WAS | AVG |
| 2 | 6 | TB | Bucky Irving | @ SEA | HIGH |
| 2 | 7 | PHI | Saquon Barkley | vs DEN | AVG |
| 2 | 8 | BAL | Derrick Henry | vs HOU | AVG |
| 3 | 9 | DAL | Javonte Williams | @ NYJ | LOW |
| 3 | 10 | LV | Ashton Jeanty | @ IND | AVG |
| 3 | 11 | NYJ | Breece Hall | vs DAL | AVG |
| 3 | 12 | CLE | Quinshon Judkins | vs MIN (LDN) | AVG |
| 3 | 13 | SEA | Ken Walker III | vs TB | HIGH |
| 3 | 14 | MIN | Jordan Mason | @ CLE (LDN) | HIGH |
| 3 | 15 | JAX | Travis Etienne | vs KC | HIGH |
| 4 | 16 | NO | Alvin Kamara | vs NYG | LOW |
| 4 | 17 | NYG | Cam Skattebo | @ NO | AVG |
| 4 | 18 | HOU | Woody Marks | @ BAL | AVG |
| 4 | 19 | CAR | Chuba Hubbard | vs MIA | AVG |
| 4 | 20 | DEN | J.K. Dobbins | @ PHI | AVG |
| 4 | 21 | DET | David Montgomery | @ CIN | LOW |
| 4 | 22 | NE | Rhamondre Stevenson | @ BUF | AVG |
| 4 | 23 | TEN | Tony Pollard | @ ARI | HIGH |
| 4 | 24 | CIN | Chase Brown | vs DET | HIGH |
| 5 | 25 | NE | TreVeyon Henderson | @ BUF | AVG |
| 5 | 26 | DEN | RJ Harvey | @ PHI | AVG |
| 5 | 27 | HOU | Nick Chubb | @ BAL | AVG |
| 5 | 28 | SEA | Zach Charbonnet | vs TB | HIGH |
| 5 | 29 | WAS | Jacory Croskey-Merritt | @ LAC | AVG |
| 5 | 30 | TB | Rachaad White | @ SEA | HIGH |
| 5 | 31 | KC | Isiah Pacheco | @ JAX | HIGH |
| 5 | 32 | KC | Kareem Hunt | @ JAX | HIGH |
| 5 | 33 | NO | Kendre Miller | vs NYG | AVG |
| 6 | 34 | ARI | Michael Carter | vs TEN | HIGH |
| 6 | 35 | MIN | Zavier Scott | @ CLE (LDN) | AVG |
| 6 | 36 | TEN | Tyjae Spears | @ ARI | HIGH |
| 6 | 37 | KC | Brashard Smith | @ JAX | AVG |
| 6 | 38 | WAS | Chris Rodriguez | @ LAC | HIGH |
| 6 | 39 | ARI | Emari Demercado | vs TEN | HIGH |
| 6 | 40 | LV | Raheem Mostert | @ IND | AVG |
| 6 | 41 | MIA | Ollie Gordon | @ CAR | HIGH |
| 6 | 42 | JAX | Bhayshul Tuten | vs KC | HIGH |
| 6 | 43 | DAL | Miles Sanders | @ NYJ | AVG |
| 7 | 44 | CLE | Dylan Sampson | vs MIN (LDN) | HIGH |
| 7 | 45 | NE | Antonio Gibson | @ BUF | HIGH |
| 7 | 46 | CAR | Rico Dowdle | vs MIA | AVG |
| 7 | 47 | CIN | Samaje Perine | vs DET | HIGH |
| 7 | 48 | NYJ | Isaiah Davis | vs DAL | AVG |
| 7 | 49 | BAL | Justice Hill | vs HOU | HIGH |
| 7 | 50 | TB | Sean Tucker | @ SEA | HIGH |
Tier 1 | Week 5 Elite Running Backs
After watching Denver run all over Cincinnati on Monday night, Jahmyr Gibbs (RB5 overall) is licking his chops for his turn. The ever-dangerous Jonathan Taylor gets a juicy matchup against the Raiders, fresh off their emotional loss, while James Cook (RB2 overall) continues to dominate Buffalo’s backfield with 70%+ of rushing snaps and over half the passing work
Tier 2 | Easy Week 5 Running Back Start Decisions
De’Von Achane | Miami Dolphins
Second in RB target share, Achane’s role only grows after Monday night’s backfield shakeup. He’s the unquestioned No. 1 fantasy weapon in Miami and should see heavy usage against Carolina.
Omarion Hampton | Los Angeles Chargers
The RB1 overall over the past two weeks, Hampton has piled up 198 yards, 2 scores, and 12 catches for 96 yards, second only to McCaffrey in receiving among RBs. Washington’s defense is average, but if Joe Alt sits, his ceiling takes a hit.
Bucky Irving | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Despite finishing the game on Sunday, Bucky Irving hasn’t practiced at all this week. He is at a high risk of missing the game, and even if he plays, he may yield a lot of touches to Rachaad White and Sean Tucker. Have them ready to go.
Saquon Barkley | Philadelphia Eagles
The volume is there (77 carries, 16 targets), but efficiency is lacking at 3.1 YPC and just 3 TDs. Facing Denver’s stingy defense that’s allowed fewer than 100 rushing yards and only 2 rushing scores, expectations need to be kept in check.
Derrick Henry | Baltimore Ravens
Outrushing Barkley (284 to 237) on nearly 30 fewer carries, Henry is still a bruiser, but with as many fumbles as TDs (3) and only 4 targets, he’s script-dependent. With Cooper Rush at QB, Baltimore’s offense could stall, limiting Henry’s best-case scenarios.
Tier 3 | Week 5 Upside Running Back Starts
Start of the Week | Javonte Williams | Dallas Cowboys
The surprise RB6 on the season, Williams is averaging nearly 5 YPC and showing the power and tackle-breaking ability that made him a rookie sensation. With the Jets giving up over 130 rush yards per game, his heavy workload (73% snap share and 87% of goal-line snaps) keeps him locked in as a strong RB1.
Saquon Barkley | Philadelphia Eagles
So, it was the stance—take that, Chip Kelly. Barkley looked back to form in Week 3, delivering the RB1 overall finish on the back of two receiving TDs and a 64-yard house call. The problem? After feasting on Chicago’s last-ranked run defense, he now faces Indy’s top-10 unit that’s held teams under 100 yards with just two rushing scores. Expect tougher sledding even with the stance back.
Breece Hall | New York Jets
With Braelon Allen sidelined, Hall should dominate touches. He just went over 100 scrimmage yards on 20 touches against Miami, looking explosive and efficient. Dallas has been slightly better versus the run than the Dolphins, but still average, allowing 120 yards and 6 TDs on the ground.
Kenneth Walker III | Seattle Seahawks
After Week 1 panic, Walker has bounced back as RB11 overall, averaging 75 rushing yards per game and 3 TDs. Even in a committee (split snaps with Charbonnet), he’s been far more efficient—4.7 YPC versus Charbonnet’s 1.8. The passing work is capped, but Walker is clearly the better option on the ground.
London RBs | Vikings vs Browns
Sunday morning brings Quinshon Judkins vs Jordan Mason in London. Mason was bottled up by Pittsburgh’s revived defense in Dublin, averaging under 4 YPC and just 10.2 fantasy points. The Browns bring the NFL’s #1 run defense to the matchup. On the flip side, Judkins is heating up with back-to-back RB11 finishes against Green Bay and Detroit, two of the league’s better run defenses, showing his rising stock.
Tiers 4 – 7 for Week 5 Fantasy Football Start/Sit Running Backs
Tier 4 | Strong Floor Running Backs with Risk in Week 5
Cam Skattebo & Jo’quavious “Woody” Marks | Rookie RBs
Both 4th-round picks are pushing into starter territory. Cam Skattebo has been operating as the lead back since Tyrone Tracy went down, finishing RB5 overall in Week 3. Meanwhile, Woody Marks just had his breakout in Week 4, RB6 with 27.9 fantasy points. The arrow is pointing up for these dual-threat rookies.
J.K. Dobbins & RJ Harvey | Denver Broncos
Despite rushing for over 100 yards, Dobbins finished behind RJ Harvey for the first time this season, with Harvey also out-touching him. Some of that can be chalked up to game script, but Harvey’s role is growing. Against Philadelphia’s front, this backfield split could frustrate managers.
Rhamondre Stevenson & TreVeyon Henderson | New England Patriots
Stevenson hasn’t sniffed his Week 2 success, scoring just 11.7 points over his last two games on 17 touches. Henderson, on the other hand, has logged 23 touches for 20.3 fantasy points over that span. Another backfield where the rookie looks ready to carve out a bigger role.
David Montgomery | Detroit Lions
Cincinnati is a juicy matchup, and this is the type of game where the Lions lean on Montgomery to grind down the clock. Expect a ceiling outcome with plenty of touches to close things out.
Tony Pollard & Chase Brown | Underperformers
Pollard (RB30) and Brown (RB33) are both lagging far behind offseason expectations. Unfortunately, the road doesn’t get easier with Arizona’s #8 run defense and Detroit’s #7 unit on tap. Relief isn’t coming in Week 5.
Tier 5 | Volatile Week 5 Running Backs
Sit of the Week | Jacory Croskey-Merritt | Washington Commanders
Washington is the #2 rushing team in the NFL, but since his promising Week 1, Croskey-Merritt has been outproduced by Chris Rodriguez and Jeremy McNichols. With the added factor of strong QB rushing, this backfield will remain one of the tougher ones to predict for fantasy.
Kansas City Running Backs
The Jaguars’ defense has been stout against the run, ranking 4th in the NFL. One reason is they funnel opponents to the air, giving up big passing yards and scores instead. Expect Kansas City to lean more on Mahomes, leaving their RBs with fewer than 20 combined touches.
Kendre Miller | New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara’s snap share has dipped from 85% to 72%, while Miller’s role continues to grow, he even outscored Kamara in Week 4. Miller is averaging half a yard more per carry than Kamara and now handles nearly 50% of the rushing snaps. His arrow is pointing firmly upward.
Tier 6 | Week 4 Running Backs with High Risk
Zavier Scott | New Orleans Saints
With bye weeks starting and injuries piling up, Scott becomes an intriguing flex option thanks to his receiving chops. He saw 7 targets last week, catching 6 for 43 yards and a TD, giving him a solid PPR floor.
Tyjae Spears | Tennessee Titans
A preseason injury landed Spears on IR before the season, but he’s scheduled to return this week. Arizona will present a challenge, and his role is still unclear, making him more of a speculative stash than a locked-in start.
Bhayshul Tuten | Washington Commanders
Tuten has yet to crack a 25% snap share and has regressed since his Week 2 RB17 finish. Until he sees a bigger role, his fantasy relevance remains limited.
Tier 7 | Desperate Week 5 Flex Running Backs
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Quarterback | Running Back | Wide Receiver | Tight End
Wide Receivers | Start/Sit Tiers for Week 5 Rankings
Week 5 Wide Receiver Start/Sit Tiers (Quick-Guide)
Use these WR tiers to settle lineup disputes and finalize fantasy football decisions:
| Tier | Rank | Team | Player | Opponent | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | DET | Amon-Ra St. Brown | @ CIN | LOW |
| 1 | 2 | SEA | Jaxon Smith-Njigba | vs TB | LOW |
| 1 | 3 | NYJ | Garrett Wilson | vs DAL | LOW |
| 2 | 4 | HOU | Nico Collins | @ BAL | LOW |
| 2 | 5 | DAL | George Pickens | @ NYJ | AVG |
| 2 | 6 | MIN | Justin Jefferson | @ CLE (LDN) | HIGH |
| 3 | 7 | TB | Emeka Egbuka | @ SEA | AVG |
| 3 | 8 | CIN | Ja’Marr Chase | vs DET | HIGH |
| 3 | 9 | LV | Jakobi Meyers | @ IND | AVG |
| 3 | 10 | DEN | Courtland Sutton | @ PHI | AVG |
| 3 | 11 | CAR | Tetairoa McMillan | vs MIA | LOW |
| 3 | 12 | ARI | Marvin Harrison Jr. | vs TEN | LOW |
| 3 | 13 | IND | Michael Pittman Jr. | vs LV | LOW |
| 3 | 14 | KC | Xavier Worthy | @ JAX | LOW |
| 3 | 15 | PHI | A.J. Brown | vs DEN | HIGH |
| 4 | 16 | MIA | Jaylen Waddle | @ CAR | AVG |
| 4 | 17 | WAS | Deebo Samuel | @ LAC | HIGH |
| 4 | 18 | LAC | Quentin Johnston | vs WAS | AVG |
| 4 | 19 | LAC | Keenan Allen | vs WAS | AVG |
| 4 | 20 | JAX | Brian Thomas Jr. | vs KC | HIGH |
| 4 | 21 | DET | Jameson Williams | @ CIN | LOW |
| 4 | 22 | NO | Chris Olave | vs NYG | LOW |
| 4 | 23 | TB | Chris Godwin | @ SEA | AVG |
| 4 | 24 | LAC | Ladd McConkey | vs WAS | AVG |
| 4 | 25 | PHI | DeVonta Smith | vs DEN | HIGH |
| 5 | 26 | NE | Stefon Diggs | @ BUF | AVG |
| 5 | 27 | CLE | Jerry Jeudy | vs MIN (LDN) | HIGH |
| 5 | 28 | MIN | Jordan Addison | @ CLE (LDN) | AVG |
| 5 | 29 | BAL | Zay Flowers | vs HOU | HIGH |
| 5 | 30 | BUF | Khalil Shakir | vs NE | AVG |
| 5 | 31 | CIN | Tee Higgins | vs DET | HIGH |
| 5 | 32 | NYG | Wan’Dale Robinson | @ NO | AVG |
| 5 | 33 | NYG | Darius Slayton | @ NO | AVG |
| 6 | 34 | MIA | Malik Washington | @ CAR | AVG |
| 6 | 35 | TEN | Calvin Ridley | @ ARI | AVG |
| 6 | 36 | KC | Marquise Brown | @ JAX | AVG |
| 6 | 37 | DEN | Troy Franklin | @ PHI | AVG |
| 6 | 38 | DEN | Marvin Mims Jr. | @ PHI | AVG |
| 6 | 39 | JAX | Travis Hunter | vs KC | HIGH |
| 6 | 40 | LV | Tre Tucker | @ IND | AVG |
| 6 | 41 | SEA | Cooper Kupp | vs TB | AVG |
| 6 | 42 | SEA | Tory Horton | vs TB | AVG |
| 6 | 43 | IND | Josh Downs | vs LV | AVG |
| 7 | 44 | HOU | Christian Kirk | @ BAL | AVG |
| 7 | 45 | KC | Tyquan Thornton | @ JAX | AVG |
| 7 | 46 | BUF | Keon Coleman | vs NE | HIGH |
| 7 | 47 | HOU | Jayden Higgins | @ BAL | AVG |
| 7 | 48 | TEN | Elic Ayomanor | @ ARI | AVG |
| 7 | 49 | NE | Kayshon Boutte | @ BUF | HIGH |
| 7 | 50 | JAX | Dyami Brown | vs KC | HIGH |
Tier 1 | Elite Wide Receivers for Week 5
Amon-Ra St. Brown | Detroit Lions
Leading the NFL with 6 receiving TDs and an absurd 87% catch rate, St. Brown is the WR2 overall in fantasy.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba | Seattle Seahawks
The former Buckeye ranks 2nd in target share at over 33%, giving him elite weekly volume.
Garrett Wilson | New York Jets
Right behind at 3rd in target share, also above 33%, Wilson is thriving as the focal point of this passing attack.
All three draw soft Week 5 matchups, setting the stage for explosive fantasy lines
Tier 2 | Must-Start Week 5 Wide Receivers
Start of the Week | Nico Collins | Houston Texans
Since his Week 1 dud, Collins has been the WR11, rekindling his chemistry with Stroud. With Houston’s offense heating up and a date with the 31st-ranked pass defense, he’s lined up for another big day.
George Pickens | Dallas Cowboys
The WR3 since Week 2, Pickens has thrived without C.D. Lamb, erupting for 8-134-2 last week. Another high-ceiling game is in play at the Meadowlands.
Justin Jefferson | Minnesota Vikings
Finally back in WR1 territory after a 10-catch, 126-yard outing, Jefferson looks like himself again. Cleveland brings a top-5 defense, but with 8 passing TDs allowed, Jefferson still has room to shine overseas.
Tier 3 | Week 5 Wide Receivers with Upside
Emeka Egbuka | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Of his 101 Week 4 receiving yards, 77 came on one electric TD play, earning Emeka Egbuka his 2nd WR1 finish of the year. With a steady 22% target share, he’s climbed to WR8 overall. Against Seattle’s elite rush defense, expect the Bucs to lean more heavily on Mayfield and the passing game.
Ja’Marr Chase | Cincinnati Bengals
This hasn’t been the start managers expected. Chase’s WR19 standing is buoyed almost entirely by his Week 2 WR3 finish, with fewer than 10 points in his other three games. The real concern? Jake Browning. He looks nothing like his 2023 version, and with Detroit’s defense up next, relief doesn’t seem likely.
Tetairoa McMillan | Carolina Panthers
Thirty-three targets on a 22% share have given McMillan a stable weekly floor, but the Panthers offense is averaging under 20 points per game. A 55% catch rate, a 72% catchable-ball rate, and 3 drops haven’t helped. Sitting at WR33 with zero TDs, positive regression should come soon—maybe against a Dolphins defense allowing nearly 30 ppg.
Sophomores with Good Matchups
Marvin Harrison Jr. had a rollercoaster Week 4—sloppy drops in the first half before rebounding with 5-58-1 after the break. He’ll need to show up early against a Titans defense giving up 30+ points per game. Meanwhile, Xavier Worthy returned from a shoulder injury and immediately posted a WR16 finish on 8 targets. Jacksonville’s soft pass defense gives him another juicy opportunity.
A.J. Brown | Philadelphia Eagles
The panic is real. Sitting at WR51 and averaging just 8.8 ppg, Brown hasn’t looked like his usual dominant self. The Eagles have the league’s 2nd-worst passing game but are still 4-0, leaving little incentive to change. A matchup against Denver’s stingy secondary doesn’t feel like the week he snaps back.
Tiers 4 – 7 for Week 5 Fantasy Football Start/Sit Wide Receivers
Tier 4 | Wide Receivers with High Ceilings Week 5
Jaylen Waddle | Miami Dolphins
The Tyreek Hill injury was gruesome and may mark the end of his Hall of Fame career. But fantasy continues, and Jaylen Waddle now takes over as Miami’s WR1. Sitting at WR29 on the season, he should climb quickly with the lion’s share of targets moving forward.
Chargers Wide Receivers
Last year, Ladd McConkey formed a mind meld with Justin Herbert on his way to a WR12 finish. But 2025 has reshaped this WR room—Keenan Allen returned from a one-year hiatus to sit at WR9, and Quinton Johnston is enjoying a shocking third-year breakout at WR4. Together, Allen and Johnston account for all 7 of Herbert’s passing TDs. Meanwhile, despite leading the team in routes run, McConkey is just 3rd in targets, receptions, and yards. Better weeks are coming, but picking the breakout game is the challenge.
Brian Thomas Jr. | Jacksonville Jaguars
One of the most hyped receivers from the 2024 class, Brian Thomas Jr. has been a letdown with a sub-40% catch rate and just 9 ppg. The opportunities are there—he’s 13th in air yards and 14th in targets league-wide—but he needs to convert. A matchup against Kansas City’s top-8 pass defense won’t make things easier.
Chris Olave | New Orleans Saints
Olave leads the NFL in targets, yet he’s just WR27 in fantasy. A low catch rate, shallow aDOT, and fewer than 2 yards after the catch (one of the lowest marks in the league) have made his opportunities low-value. Until efficiency improves, he’ll remain more volume-dependent than breakout-prone.
Chris Godwin | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
On pace for a career season, Chris Godwin’s year was derailed by a season-ending injury. Before the setback, he logged 10 targets but managed only 3 catches for 26 yards. With Mike Evans still sidelined, those opportunities remain—but without Godwin, Tampa’s passing attack could sputter.
Tier 5 | Week 5 Second Wide Receiver Options and Strong Flex
Sit of the Week | Zay Flowers | Baltimore Ravens
Flowers’ target share has fallen off a cliff, from 40% early to under 20% in the last two weeks. His fantasy production has mirrored the drop, down from 21 ppg to under 9. With Lamar Jackson sidelined and Cooper Rush starting, Flowers’ ceiling is capped for now.
Stefon Diggs | New England Patriots
Over the last few weeks, Diggs has emerged as the clear leader of this WR room, catching 13 passes for 156 yards. The touchdowns haven’t shown up yet, but given his usage, it’s only a matter of time before he finds the end zone.
New York Giants Wide Receivers
The devastating injury to Malik Nabers opens the door for Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton to step up. Jaxson Dart flashed in his first start, but heading into New Orleans for his first road game won’t be easy, even against a defense that’s been allowing over 30 points per game.
Tier 6 | Week 5 Wide Receivers with Risk
Malik Washington | Miami Dolphins
The other Dolphins WR set for a major bump in opportunities, Washington had already established himself as the clear No. 3 target. In addition to his passing game work, he’s been involved as a runner with 11 carries for 60 yards, giving him multiple paths to fantasy relevance.
Denver Broncos Wide Receivers
Early in the season, Troy Franklin led the Broncos in receiving, but since then Cortland Sutton has reasserted himself as the top option. Meanwhile, Marvin Mims exploded in Week 4 with a WR10 overall finish, scoring over 20 fantasy points. All three wideouts bring volatility but also weekly upside.
Travis Hunter | Jacksonville Jaguars
Playing just over half the offensive snaps, Hunter’s stat lines are underwhelming for fantasy managers. The two-way star is splitting time between offense and defense, and until he gets a heavier workload at wide receiver, his ceiling will remain limited.
Tier 7 | Desperate Week 4 Wide Receiver Options
Click above for all the WR tiers for Week 5.
Quarterback | Running Back | Wide Receiver | Tight End
Tight Ends | Week 5 Start/Sit Rankings
Week 5 Tight End Start/Sit Tiers (Quick-Guide)
Below are the Tight End Start/Sit Tiers for Week 4:
| Tier | Rank | Team | Player | Opponent | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | ARI | Trey McBride | vs TEN | LOW |
| 1 | 2 | IND | Tyler Warren | vs LV | LOW |
| 1 | 3 | DAL | Jake Ferguson | @ NYJ | LOW |
| 1 | 4 | LV | Brock Bowers | @ IND | AVG |
| 2 | 5 | NE | Hunter Henry | @ BUF | LOW |
| 2 | 6 | KC | Travis Kelce | @ JAX | LOW |
| 2 | 7 | NO | Juwan Johnson | vs NYG | AVG |
| 2 | 8 | DET | Sam LaPorta | @ CIN | AVG |
| 2 | 9 | BUF | Dalton Kincaid | vs NE | AVG |
| 3 | 10 | WAS | Zach Ertz | @ LAC | AVG |
| 3 | 11 | MIN | T.J. Hockenson | @ CLE (LDN) | HIGH |
| 3 | 12 | JAX | Brenton Strange | vs KC | HIGH |
| 3 | 13 | PHI | Dallas Goedert | vs DEN | HIGH |
| 3 | 14 | MIA | Darren Waller | @ CAR | AVG |
| 3 | 15 | DEN | Evan Engram | @ PHI | HIGH |
| 3 | 16 | NYJ | Mason Taylor | vs DAL | AVG |
| 4 | 17 | NYG | Theo Johnson | @ NO | HIGH |
| 4 | 18 | LAC | Oronde Gadsden II | vs WAS | HIGH |
| 4 | 19 | CLE | Harold Fannin Jr. | vs MIN (LDN) | HIGH |
| 4 | 20 | CLE | David Njoku | vs MIN (LDN) | HIGH |
| 4 | 21 | BAL | Mark Andrews | vs HOU | HIGH |
| 4 | 22 | BAL | Isaiah Likely | vs HOU | HIGH |
| 4 | 23 | HOU | Dalton Schultz | @ BAL | AVG |
| 4 | 24 | TB | Cade Otton | @ SEA | HIGH |
| 4 | 25 | TEN | Chigoziem Okonkwo | @ ARI | HIGH |
| 4 | 26 | CAR | Ja’Tavion Sanders | vs MIA | AVG |
Tier 1 | Week 5 Elite Tight End Start Decisions
Trey McBride | Arizona Cardinals
Second in the NFL among TEs in both catches and yards, McBride sits tied for TE2 overall. With a 26% target share and a soft matchup against Tennessee, he remains the unquestioned focal point of Arizona’s passing game.
Tyler Warren | Indianapolis Colts
Leading the Colts in receiving yards (263) and averaging 13 PPG, Warren is TE4 through four weeks. The rookie looks polished and comfortable, and with only one rushing TD on the résumé, there’s room for even more upside.
Jake Ferguson | Dallas Cowboys
Filling the void left by CeeDee Lamb’s injury, Ferguson has surged to TE1 overall. He’s caught 20 of 21 targets and a TD across the last two games, and with the Jets offering little resistance, the volume will keep him locked into elite status.
Brock Bowers | Las Vegas Raiders
After a record-setting rookie season, Brock Bowers is only sitting at TE9 overall. He has produced almost as many yards the last 3 weeks as he did in week 1, and has yet to score a TD. He is still getting opportunities, 2nd in target share, and better games are ahead.
Tier 2 | Tight End Easy Week 5 Start Decisions
Start of the Week | Hunter Henry | New England Patriots
Leading the team in targets and TDs, Henry sits as the TE2 in fantasy. He remains one of Drake Maye’s most trusted weapons and should continue to see steady weekly volume.
Travis Kelce | Kansas City Chiefs
The decline is real. Averaging just 5.5 targets per game (15 catches, 182 yards, 1 TD), Kelce is no longer the alpha of this offense. With Worthy already back and Rice returning soon, his role will shrink further. Still, Jacksonville offers a matchup where he could flash.
Juwan Johnson | New Orleans Saints
After three straight TE1 weeks to open the season, Johnson came back to earth in Week 4. Even so, his 20% target share keeps him firmly in the mix as a weekly starter.
Sam LaPorta | Detroit Lions
Without a TD this year, LaPorta has slipped to TE16 overall. He gets a prime rebound spot in Week 5 against a struggling Cincinnati secondary ranked 30th against the pass.
Tiers 3 – 4 for Week 5 Fantasy Football Start/Sit Tight Ends
Tier 3 | Week 5 Tight Ends with Risk
Sit of the Week | T.J. Hockenson | Minnesota Vikings
Averaging only 7.6 PPG, Hockenson isn’t living up to his draft cost. With Jordan Addison back from suspension, he’s slipped to the third option in the passing game, leaving him more touchdown-dependent than ever.
Zach Ertz | Washington Commanders
One of the most consistent options on the roster, Ertz is the clear No. 2 target with Terry McLaurin still sidelined. Expect him to be featured early and often as Washington heads to Los Angeles.
Darren Waller | New York Giants
It took a few weeks for Waller to get healthy and back in rhythm, but he flashed with two TDs on just three catches in Week 4. His limited snap share (just over a quarter of plays) caps his ceiling for now, but the role should grow moving forward.
Mason Taylor | New York Jets
After just three targets total in Weeks 1–2, Taylor has seen 13 over the last two weeks. His five-catch, 65-yard outing in Week 4 suggests he’s carving out a reliable role in the offense.
Tier 4 | Week 5 Tight End Options for 2 TE Leagues
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Quarterback | Running Back | Wide Receiver | Tight End
Q: How should I use these Week 5 Start/Sit Tiers for lineup decisions?
Use the tiers as a guide for weekly start/sit calls. Players in the same tier are close in value, so factor in your roster needs, scoring format, and matchup before finalizing decisions.
Q: Is Dak Prescott a must-start in Week 5 after his QB1 finish?
Yes. Prescott is leading the NFL in passing yards and has 7 total scores through four games. Against a middle-of-the-pack Jets secondary, he’s a safe QB1 for Week 5.
Q: Can we trust Saquon Barkley against Denver’s run defense?
Barkley’s volume keeps him in Tier 2, but his efficiency has been disappointing. He remains a start, but fantasy managers should temper expectations against one of the league’s stingiest fronts.
Q: Is Jaylen Waddle a top-20 WR now that Tyreek Hill is out?
Yes. With Hill sidelined, Waddle becomes Miami’s WR1 and should see a significant target spike. He jumps into Tier 4 with strong WR2 upside moving forward.
Q: Who is the better RB stash in Week 5 — RJ Harvey or J.K. Dobbins?
Both are playable, but Harvey’s role is growing while Dobbins’ usage has leveled off. In PPR formats, Harvey offers more upside as Denver’s backfield tilts in his favor.
Q: Should I start Nico Collins or George Pickens in Week 5?
Both are Tier 2 starts, but Collins gets the edge in Week 5 thanks to Houston’s matchup against the 31st-ranked pass defense. Pickens remains a strong WR2 play.
Q: Is Trey McBride a weekly must-start tight end now?
Absolutely. McBride ranks 2nd among TEs in catches and yards with a 26% target share. He’s locked into Tier 2 and is a set-and-forget starter.
Q: How risky is starting Jayden Daniels coming off his knee injury?
Daniels faces a tough Week 5 matchup against the 5th-ranked passing defense. While his rushing upside gives him a solid floor, his ceiling is capped until he’s fully mobile again.
Q: Which mid-tier WRs could break out in Week 5?
Emeka Egbuka (Tier 3) and Xavier Worthy (Tier 3) both have favorable matchups. Egbuka’s steady volume and Worthy’s explosiveness make them strong breakout candidates this week.
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