Oronde Gadsden II and Sam Darnold are among the fantasy football bench players worth starting in Week 3, according to analysis from SI.com. Gadsden, the Los Angeles Chargers tight end, could see a significant boost in targets with the injuries to fellow tight ends David Njoku and Charlie Kolar. His rookie season included a four-game stretch with 24 receptions for 377 yards and two touchdowns, hinting at the upside he may offer in the coming weeks.
Sam Darnold’s potential return from a glute injury has fantasy managers reconsidering their quarterback choices. The Seattle Seahawks face the Washington Commanders, who have conceded 27.2 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks, the second-most in the NFL. If Darnold cannot return, backup Drew Lock remains a viable option against Washington’s struggling secondary.
Emmett Johnson, a rookie running back for the Kansas City Chiefs, is also on the radar for Week 3. The Chiefs plan to increase Johnson’s workload to preserve Kenneth Walker II’s health. So far this season, Johnson has 10 carries and four receptions, totaling 103 yards from scrimmage. Kansas City’s matchup against the Miami Dolphins, who allow the second-most fantasy points per game at 34.1, sets the stage for a lopsided game. The Chiefs are expected to dominate, likely leading to increased running opportunities for Johnson in the second half once starters are rested.
Denzel Boston, wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns, has emerged as Deshaun Watson’s primary target. After catching five of seven targets for 95 yards and a touchdown last week, Boston’s season totals stand at seven receptions for 154 yards and two touchdowns. While there are questions about Watson’s long-term status and Shedeur Sanders’ potential influence on target distribution, Boston remains a solid fantasy option for this week.
The Chargers’ Gadsden’s opportunity arises with injuries sidelining Njoku and Kolar. His ability to produce when called upon was evident in his rookie campaign. While Ladd McConkey is also nursing a rib injury, Gadsden could see an increased role in the passing game, potentially offering another option for fantasy managers seeking a tight end with upside.
These players are not the usual fantasy starters but present intriguing options given their matchups and recent performances. Managers willing to move them from the bench could find advantage as Week 3 unfolds.
According to Yahoo Sports.