Week 1 is behind us. This means we were able to see how some defenders performed in some key situations. On the other hand, we were able to see how some offenses were able to exploit some defenses. The season is long and good teams will adapt with what is in front of him. Unfortunately, some teams will fail to adapt thus their defender’s impact on a fantasy level will be impacted too. Last week, we got seven out of ten starts and sits correct for your IDP lineups!
*SIDE NOTE*—We consider a start as a player who will earn 10 or more points for you, while a sit scores less than 10 points.
Before we look at our Week 2 IDP Starts and Sits, let us take a look at how we did in Week 1.
| Boye Mafe | 13pts | PASS |
| Kayvon Thibodeaux | 1pt | FAIL |
| Quincy Williams | 14pts | PASS |
| Nick Bolton | 13pts | PASS |
| Budda Baker | 15pts | PASS |
| Will Anderson | 5pts | PASS |
| Tuli Tuipulotu | 0pts | PASS |
| Devin Lloyd | 17pts | FAIL |
| Frankie Luvu | 6pts | PASS |
| Jessie Bates | 12pts | FAIL |
**Injuries happen when we least expect it! In case of an all-of-sudden injury or reason a player cannot play, be sure to check out our pivot options too!**
STARTS
Defensive Lineman – Baltimore Ravens – Nnamdi Madubuike (vs LV) – START
The Raiders allowed four sacks in their Week 1 matchup, indicating vulnerabilities along their offensive line. A talented pass rusher like Madubuike can exploit vulnerabilities. Last week, Madubuike demonstrated his effectiveness by earning the second-best pass-rush grade for the Ravens, trailing only linebacker Trenton Simpson. That pressure allowed Madubuike to register three total pressures, showing his ability to consistently disrupt the opposing quarterback. With the Raiders struggling to protect their quarterback, Madubuike could be in line for a big game.
Edge Rusher – Los Angeles Chargers – Khalil Mack (@ CAR) – START
In week 1, the Carolina Panthers’ offensive line looked shaky, allowing four sacks on quarterback Bryce Young. This weakness in pass protection is something Mack, an elite edge rusher, can take full advantage of. Last week, Mack showcased his dominance with five total pressures, including 1.5 sacks and two quarterback hits. His ability to consistently get into the backfield makes him a significant threat to a struggling offensive line like Carolina’s. Given the Panthers’ issues in protecting their young quarterback, Mack is in a prime position to have a big game.
His experience and relentless motor make him a nightmare matchup for any offensive line, especially one that has already shown weaknesses. With Young still adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL, Mack’s ability to apply pressure could easily result in multiple sacks and key defensive plays.
Linebacker – Washington Commanders – Bobby Wagner (vs NYG) – START
Wagner is one of those players that until he gives us reason not to, he is always starting on your IDP teams. However, if there is ever any doubt, this match specifically should erase that doubt. Wagner brings great tackling abilities as he continues to dominate the field year after year. Despite being one of the older linebackers in the league, his instincts and physical conditioning allow him to maintain a high level of play.
The Giants’ offensive line allowed five sacks on quarterback Daniel Jones last week, highlighting their struggles in pass protection and run blocking — areas where Wagner can thrive. Last week, Wagner recorded three tackles for loss, shows that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in the backfield. Given the Giants’ offensive line issues, Wagner should have plenty of opportunity to make plays behind the line of scrimmage this week. His ability to shoot gaps and bring down ball carriers in the backfield makes him a strong candidate to continue his double-digit tackle streak.
Linebacker – Seattle Seahawks – Tyrel Dodson (@ NE) – START
In week 1, Dodson showcased his tackling abilities by achieving double-digit tackles, including nine solo tackles. He brings the ability to close in on ball carriers and bring them down efficiently without needing assistance. His solo tackle numbers indicate a linebacker who is always around the ball, capable of stopping plays in their tracks.
Against the Patriots team that tends to rely on the run due to their weaker passing attack, Dodson is in prime position to rack up tackles once again. Dodson should have plenty of opportunities to make impact plays, especially if he can penetrate the backfield and stop running back Rhamondre Stevenson. His ability to read plays and his aggressive style of play make him a strong candidate to register tackles for losses this week.
Defensive Back – Houston Texans – Derek Stingley Jr. (vs CHI) – START
Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams struggled to find his rhythm in week 1. Despite allowing a 50 percent completion rate when targeted last week, Stingley was highly effective in limiting yardage after the catch, showing his ability to close in quickly and make solid tackles. Stingley is likely to be matched up against primary receiver, D.J. Moore, which should give him ample opportunities to make plays.
With a rookie quarterback under center, there is a good chance that Stingley will be tested often, which could lead to a bid day in terms of passes defended and potential turnovers. In addition to his pass coverage, Stingley has proven to be effective at the line of scrimmage. Last week, Stingley recorded three run stops. His ability to contribute in run defense adds another layer to his value in IDP formats.
Against a young quarterback who might struggle with decision-making, this could be the perfect game for Stingley to capitalize on a mistake and secure his first interception of the season. His versatility and playmaking ability make him a strong start this week.
Additional Players to consider starting:
Houston Texans – DL – Danielle Hunter
Indianapolis Colts – DL –DeForest Buckner
Pittsburgh Steelers – LB – Patrick Queen
Arizona Cardinals – LB –Kyzir White
New England Patriots – DB –Kyle Dugger
SIT
Edge Rusher – Las Vegas Raiders – Christian Wilkins (@ BAL) – SIT
The Ravens’ offensive line performed well last week, allowing only one sack despite giving up 13 pressures. This speaks to the ability of quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is known for his elite speed and pocket awareness. His agility allows him to escape pressure. This makes it incredibly difficult for opposing linemen to bring him down, even when the protection breaks down.
Wilkins, on the other hand, had a quiet week 1, recording zero pressures. Given Jackson’s skill at evading defenders and the overall strength of the Ravens’ offensive line, it is hard to envision Wilkins making a significant impact in this matchup. Wilkins may struggle to find opportunities to break through and generate sacks or meaningful plays for fantasy value.
Edge Rusher – Atlanta Falcons – Matt Judon (@ PHI) – SIT
The Eagles’ offensive line is one of the strongest in the league, as they did not allow a single sack to quarterback Jalen Hurts in week 1. Hurts was sacked, but it was not due to lack of protection from his offensive line. In fact, they only gave up nine pressures in total. This could severely limit Judon’s chances to make an impact, despite him being considered one of Atlanta’s top edge rushers.
Furthermore, Judon’s week 1 performance was underwhelming. He managed only one pressure all game. Given this lack of momentum, it is hard to consider a bounce back game against such a dominant offensive line. Without consistent pressure, Judon may struggle to disrupt Hurts or make a difference in the Falcons’ defensive game plan.
Linebacker – Tennessee Titans – Ernest Jones (vs NYJ) – SIT
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers struggled for the Jets last week; however, the offensive line showed they could protect the quarterback by allowing only one sack. Last week, Jones struggled against a rookie quarterback, managing just one total pressure. His performance raises concerns, particularly when facing a veteran like Rodgers, who excels at quickly releasing the ball and avoiding pressure.
Another major concern for Jones is his tackling efficiency. Last week, he missed 33.3 percent of his tackles, which could be a liability against the Jets’ offensive weapons. With an elusive running back like Breece Hall, and talented speedy receiver like Garrett Wilson, any missed tackles could lead to big plays. Although Jones has potential to improve as the season progresses, this matchup is likely not the one where he will shine.
Linebacker – Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Lavonte David (@ DET) – SIT
Despite recording six total tackles in week 1, with four being solo, David may not be a strong start this week against the Detroit Lions. The Lions have elusive playmakers on offense, including running backs who excel at making tacklers miss to extend plays for big gains. David’s challenge will be containing these dynamic players.
Last week, he struggled in coverage allowing 100 percent completion when targeted. This means Detroit could see him as an easy target in their passing game. Although that could mean more tackles for David, it could also mean more missed opportunities as the Lions have some speedy receivers. Additionally, David’s tackling efficiency is a concern. He missed a third of his tackles in week 1, which does not bode well against the Lions’ offense, which thrives on making defenders miss at first contact. Against a team that can punish defensive lapses, David’s missed tackles could lead to significant gains for the Lions.
While David is typically reliable, this week’s matchup presents enough challenges to consider keeping him on the bench for a safer alternative.
Defensive Back – Kansas City Chiefs – Trent McDuffie (vs CIN) – SIT
In week 1, McDuffie missed a quarter of his tackles. This week, McDuffie faces an even tougher challenge in Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who is not only faster but also more physical than the receivers McDuffie faced last week. Chase’s ability to blow past defenders for big plays puts McDuffie in a vulnerable position, especially considering some issues with missed tackles.
If McDuffie cannot wrap up, Chase could easily turn small gains into explosive plays. Furthermore, McDuffie may have to rely heavily on safety Justin Reid for help in containing Chase, which limits his individual fantasy upside. If Reid takes on a more prominent role in defending deep passes or double-teaming Chase, McDuffie might see fewer opportunities for tackles or passes defended. The combination of a dangerous matchup and his week 1 tackling issues makes McDuffie a risky play for this week.
Additional Players to consider sitting:
Minnesota Vikings – Edge – Andrew Van Ginkel
Chicago Bears – DL – Montez Sweat
Detroit Lions – LB – Jack Campbell
Atlanta Falcons – LB –Kaden Elliss
Los Angeles Rams – DB –Kamren Curl
Be sure to follow us along all season long for weekly tips on who start and who to sit on the defensive side of the ball. Follow me on X @ThePPRShow for more fantasy football content and for offensive starts and sits be sure to check out @TFFGRobbie article too. Thank you for reading.
For a more detail start/sit list, make sure you check out our Weekly IDP Rankings.