We are into week three of the new season and entering the key couple weeks in regards to getting those surprise IDP studs before your league mates do, this was when we all learned together that Darius Leonard was for real last year and many of you were able to pull the trigger and secure the overall tackles leader for the season off waivers in many leagues. This next couple weeks is when the patterns start to emerge in regards to playing time, positions in each defense and expected production.

There were more than a few waiver wire darlings after last week including Neville Hewitt and Cole Holcomb and also some flash in the pan guys that couldn’t reproduce their week one production such as Quinton Jefferson. We will try and make sense of these guys this week and the next couple weeks and hopefully get you all set up to make a title run in your IDP leagues this season. Apologies for this coming out later in the week after waivers have already gone through in most leagues. For your immediate waiver needs I would follow and read the articles from @Idp_dude and @JoeythetoothIDP every week to make sure you get the guys you need to get right away.

This article has been and will continue to be a massively in depth dive into every single team and their IDP relevant players. The guys I’m suggesting you pick up from this article will likely be the same guys IDP dude and Joey recommend but hopefully you’ll find a few more deeper dives here or learn something that will give you an edge in your league. We are working on a way to get this article out faster and earlier in the week but right now I’ve got work and real life that need to come first plus the snap count information doesn’t come out on nflgsis until Tuesday most of the time.

Bottom line is it’s a team effort here so as long as you check out idpguys.org daily you’ll be up to date with all the latest IDP news, waivers and trends. There have been requests to shorten this article or provide a cliffs notes version of it with just the guys you should grab on waivers instead but that’s not how I roll. This will continue to be a ridiculous undertaking for both me to write and you to read. But it’s like they say, if you’re going to do something you may as well do it right. So not only will we all be on the same page with who we want in waivers and what players stock is up or down but we will know WHY. And that’s just as important in my mind. So without further ado let’s get into week two and try and make sense of everything that happened this week in IDP.

Bucs @ Panthers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Performed as expected: Lavonte David (LB) and Jordan Whitehead (S) both had nice games, Whitehead has become the safety to own on the Bucs with Justin Evans (S) now on IR. Devin White (LB) went out early with an injury but should be back to a weekly auto start next week assuming he’s good to go.

Possible waiver adds: Vernon Hargreaves (CB) played 97% of snaps and had his second tier one production game in a row with an absolute monster game this week including the game saving tackle on CMC, he has definitely become a member of my “go to” cornerbacks for streaming purposes, grab him if you can and play him in any matchups against pass happy teams. Shaq Barrett (LB) is a nice option in leagues with an EDGE or OLB slot but as a regular linebacker will likely be inconsistent over the course of the season since he’s sack dependent for the majority of his production.

Flash in the pan: Kevin Minter (LB) came in for Devin White (LB) early and had a terrific day replacing him, he’ll be back to irrelevant as soon as White returns to the lineup so I wouldn’t waste a waiver wire claim on him despite his excellent production and 92% snap percentage this week. Carlton Davis (CB) also had an excellent game playing 99% of snaps but this is the first time I’ve mentioned him so the consistency isn’t there plus he only had three combined tackles last week.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Vita Vea (DT) has been a dynasty hot topic during this last offseason but hasn’t done much in the first two games this season. He played 75% of snaps this week and only had four tackle assists with only three combined tackles the week before, not great but serviceable in huge leagues as a DT2, still I would keep an eye out for some defensive tackle help. So yeah, maybe not abandon ship yet but the crew is definitely on the way to the life rafts.

Carolina Panthers

Performed as expected: Luke Kuechly (LB) and Shaq Thompson (LB) performed as expected, Luke had a ridiculous game. Donte Jackson (CB) also did about what we expected. Gerald McCoy (DT) was close to his projection as well.

Possible waiver adds: Brian Burns (DL) played 66% of snaps this week and had a really nice game with three combined tackles and a sack, he is likely already owned in dynasty but would be worth a shot in larger redraft leagues or as a bye week or short term injury replacement guy in smaller leagues.

Flash in the pan: Marquise Haynes (DE) had four combined tackles which is serviceable in large leagues as a DE2 but only played 31% of snaps which means this isn’t sustainable. Don’t bother with a waiver claim here.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: James Bradberry (CB) had a sub par game for him especially considering the matchup and how often Tampa Bay throws the ball, he’ll be fine though, corner is a spotty position by nature. Kawan Short (DT) had only one tackle but played 69% of snaps this week and has traditionally been a nice DT2 in past years and had a nice week one game so I’m definitely remaining calm on this one, he’ll be fine. Remain calm times two.

Cardinals @ Ravens

Arizona Cardinals

Performed as expected: Jordan Hicks (LB) and Budda Baker (S)

Possible waiver adds: DJ Swearinger (S) played 100% of snaps and had a really nice game, solid option for safety help. Haason Reddick (LB) played more this week, 85% of snaps and had a much better game, good option for linebacker help. Byron Murphy (CB) and Tremaine Brock (CB) both had over 90% snaps played and both had nice games they are decent streamers for cornerback in larger leagues.

Flash in the pan: Corey Peters (DT) had a sack and three solo tackles plus two tackles for loss but plays nose tackle so despite his 70% of snaps played he probably won’t be consistent enough to play all season, the 4-3 defensive tackles are the guys you want in general. Cassius Marsh (LB) only played 28% of snaps this week and that sack was the majority of his points so he’s likely a flash in the pan as well.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Chandler Jones (LB) is a weekly auto start if you have him as an EDGE or OLB, as a regular linebacker this is what life will look like this season. He will have huge weeks when he’s able to get a sack and a couple tackles for loss and there will be weeks like this where he had one solo tackle and one pass defense. He did play 95% of snaps and is pretty much a lock for double digit sacks most seasons so I’m remaining calm especially in leagues where I have him as an EDGE or OLB.

Baltimore Ravens

Performed as expected: The Ravens dominated time of possession 38 minutes to 22 minutes and only allowed the Cardinals to run 54 total plays in this game, the bottom line is the Ravens defense wasn’t on the field enough to be as productive on defense as we would’ve wanted this week. Patrick Onwuasor (LB) remains a weekly auto start and should end the year as an end of tier one linebacker. The top three IDP producers for the Ravens this week were all cornerbacks, it’s clear that the Ravens established a lead early and Arizona had to throw early and often to try and get back into this one.

Possible waiver adds: Matthew Judon (LB) played 80% of snaps this week and had four combined tackles, a sack, a tackle for loss and a bunch of quarterback hits, he looks like a good option if you need help at EDGE or OLB in larger leagues. As a regular linebacker he’s going to be far too inconsistent and sack dependent for points this season and if you want to go with that strategy you are much better off with a Chandler Jones (LB) or TJ Watt (LB) type player.

Flash in the pan: The Ravens cornerbacks are definitely not going to be sitting on top of their box score for IDP purposes every week all season. I fully expect things to return to normal when they play against a real offense again instead of a team featuring an over hyped rookie with a crappy offensive line. When that happens we’ll see names like Patrick Onwuasor (LB) or Tony Jefferson (S) at the top of the box score like we normally should. I’m not buying any of these Ravens corners, if one distinguishes themselves enough that tune will change. If I had to though it would be Anthony Averett (CB) who is averaging about four combined tackles a game so far and played 100% of snaps this week.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: I am remaining calm with Onwuasor, Jefferson, Earl Thomas and still keeping my eyes open for who will claim that inside linebacker job next to Onwuasor in their 3-4 defense. Before the season IDP Twitter was divided into the Kenny Young or Chris Board camp and so far neither has impressed or claimed that spot. Anyways, weeks like this happen, nature of the game and all that. Keep plugging.

49ers @ Bengals

San Francisco 49ers

Performed as expected: Kwon Alexander (LB) Fred Warner (LB) Jaquiski Tartt (S) DeForest Buckner (DT)

Possible waiver adds: Solomon Thomas (DE) and Arik Armstead (DE) were subbing in with Bosa and Ford to make sure the pass rush was fresh all game, they have some value in all IDP and larger full IDP leagues, Thomas played 47% while Armstead played 61% this week. Tavarious Moore (CB,S) played 100% of snaps again this week and had four combined tackles, he has some value if you can play him as a corner, these dual designation guys are always helpful in leagues with limited bench space and if they end up playing safety their production is usually more consistent and better overall than at cornerback.

Flash in the pan: Ronald Blair (DE) had a monster game this week but only played 50% of snaps, he’s as decent a dice roll as Armstead or Thomas in bigger or all IDP leagues but counting on this kind of production weekly is a recipe for disaster.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Dee Ford (DE) and Nick Bosa (DE) both had sub par games this week, Ford played 36% of snaps while Bosa played 44%. The Bengals were in comeback mode for a good portion of this game so this doesn’t make a ton of sense to me, however they both had a sack last week and have either draft pedigree (Bosa) or significant money invested in them (Ford) so odds are good they will remain integral pieces in the 49ers defense going forward, so remain calm.

Cincinnati Bengals

Performed as expected: Jessie Bates (S) Shawn Williams (S) Preston Brown (LB) Sam Hubbard (DE) Carlos Dunlap (DE)

Possible waiver adds: If you haven’t pulled the trigger on Sam Hubbard (DE) yet I strongly suggest you do. He played 89% of snaps this week and had his second really nice week in a row, no sack this week but six combined tackles from a defensive end is excellent.

Flash in the pan: None this week, the guys who performed were the guys who were supposed to perform, no surprises this week.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Geno Atkins (DT) and Nick Vigil (LB) both had terrible games in an absolutely ideal situation this week. The 49ers ran the hell out of the ball for over 259 yards on 42 attempts. That’s about as good as it gets for linebackers and defensive tackles in terms of opportunity to make plays. The 49ers won time of possession as well so the Bengals defense was literally out there all day. So to see these two traditional studs fail in this type of scenario is not ideal at all. Vigil ended up playing 99% of snaps while Atkins was in for 67% this week so the playing time was there. I know what these two are capable of and would be willing to bet that this type of thing only happens in this scenario something like one time out of ten. Long story short I’m remaining calm they should both bounce back soon.

Chargers @ Lions

Los Angeles Chargers

Performed as expected: Thomas Davis (LB) Adrian Phillips (S) Melvin Ingram (DE) Joey Bosa (DE) Kyzir White (LB,S)

Possible waiver adds: Jaylen Watkins (S) is listed as the next man up on the depth chart for Adrian Phillips (S) who will be out several weeks with injury, it is possible though that Desmond King (CB) could take over that role instead it’s something we’ve seen him do in the past. Bottom line is we, or at least I, don’t really know who will take over Phillips role and production. Watkins is a decent roll of the dice in larger or all IDP leagues and if it doesn’t cost you anything other than the click of a mouse or a few dollars of FAAB I would do it, you could end up with a solid safety option for the as long as Phillips and James are out if it pans out. Brandon Facyson (CB) had another terrific week and played 100% of snaps in this game, he is definitely on my radar as one of the guys I would like to stream at cornerback in matchups against pass happy offenses.

Flash in the pan: Uchenna Nwosu (LB) had a nice week but only played 44% of snaps so this kind of production will not be sustainable with that little playing time, it’s possible his snaps go up with Phillips out but I doubt it. Pass for now.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Denzel Perryman (LB) only played three snaps this week, all on special teams. He could be just getting eased back into the lineup after being injured week one but I remember starting this guy when he was healthy last year and even then he wasn’t anything special. I would start boarding the life rafts and looking for other options at linebacker, if you’re in a shallow league definitely blow him out the airlock, in larger leagues I would hold him for now and search for a replacement, next week should tell the story since he should be 100% good to go, if he’s still only playing minimal snaps on special teams at that point then it’s time to abandon ship even in deeper leagues. Jerry Tillery (DT) played 44% of snaps this week which is an increase in playing time but had another abysmal week, he’s a hold in dynasty only at this point. Reyshawn Jenkins (S) has not been able to put together any kind of production despite excellent playing time in the first two games I would be fine with shit-canning him there are plenty of safeties in the sea.

Detroit Lions

Performed as expected: Tracy Walker (S) Quandre Diggs (S,CB)

Possible waiver adds: Jahlani Tavai (LB) had a terrific game and played 69% of snaps this week, nice. For me he’s somewhere between a must have waiver add in shallow leagues and a flash in the pan because of his less than ideal playing time these first two weeks. Also the second Jarrad Davis (LB) comes back into the lineup we have no idea what is going to happen with Tavai so investing any kind of waiver priority or FAAB in getting him could be a waste of resources. If you can add him cheap go for it, if not I might pass.

Flash in the pan: A’Shawn Robinson (DT) had a really nice game this week but only played 43% of snaps and usually hovers around that kind of playing time every week, he rarely produces with any kind of consistency so I would pass unless you are in a truly, massively deep league and need defensive tackle help.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Trey Flowers (DE) and Damon Harrison (DT) both did absolutely nothing this week, again. They played 58% and 51% of snaps this week respectively and both have significant money invested in them so the lack of playing time and production is unexpected, the addition of Mike Daniels (DT) and having A’Shawn Robinson (DT) still in town are not helping Snacks Harrison this season while Flowers seemed to be far more productive on the Patriots. Snacks started slow last year too and ended as a top four defensive tackle once again so he’s got a lot of leeway with me, Flowers though might have been the product of a Belichick defense and his roughly 90% of snaps a game he played while in New England. I might start looking for other options as a Flowers owner, I am.

Vikings @ Packers

Minnesota Vikings

Performed as expected: Danielle Hunter (DE) Eric Kendricks (LB) Harrison Smith (S) Linval Joseph (DT)

Possible waiver adds: Anthony Harris (S) played 99% of snaps this week, about the same as last week, and had six combined tackles. He is taking over the Andrew Sendejo role from last season that was traditionally pretty productive and consistent, he makes a nice safety three or four in all IDP or deep leagues where you are starting a bunch of safeties every week.

Flash in the pan: Jayron Kearse (S) had a great week one but only played around 50% of snaps, this week he played 52% of snaps this week and only had four combined tackles and a pass defense, so not only is he still a flash in the pan but if you went ahead and got him anyways last week he’s now also an abandon ship candidate.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Everson Griffen (DE) only had three tackle assists this week but played 91% of snaps and is an excellent defensive end for IDP purposes, he’ll be fine. Jayron Kearse (S) isn’t playing enough snaps to be consistent, the waiver wire safety to own here is Anthony Harris (S) who played 99% of snaps this week.

Green Bay Packers

Performed as expected: Blake Martinez (LB) Darnell Savage (S) Kenny Clark (DT) Adrian Amos (S)

Possible waiver adds: Za’Darius Smith (LB) had his second nice week in a row and could be a nice addition if you have an EDGE or OLB slot in a deeper league, besides that he’s going to be too inconsistent for a regular linebacker spot.

Flash in the pan: No one this week, Martinez and Savage led the way this week like they were expected to. No surprises this week.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: BJ Goodson (LB) played the inside linebacker role that was Oren Burks before he got injured. He was in for 58% of snaps this week but only had two solo tackles. There is a chance he could get more snaps next week and become close to as productive as we all thought Burks would be but by the time that happens Burks will basically be ready to come back, abandon ship before anyone boarded really lol. Jaire Alexander (CB) had a sub par game but will be fine, Minnesota couldn’t throw the ball real well at all this week, Alexander will continue to be a really good option to stream or start against efficient passing offenses.

Jaguars @ Texans

Jacksonville Jaguars

Performed as expected: Myles Jack (LB) Ronnie Harrison (S) Quincy Williams (LB)

Possible waiver adds: Josh Allen (DE) had a nice game, sans sack, with Yannick Ngakoue (DE) injured and out this week, he’s still mostly a dynasty piece at this point but if Campbell or Nagkoue is declared out for any games this year it is a solid idea to start Allen that week. Quincy Williams (LB) played 100% of snaps this week and outperformed Myles Jack (LB), if you haven’t gotten him yet it might be too late but absolutely grab him if you can. Jarod Wilson (S) played 100% of snaps and had another nice week, he could be a nice piece for safety depth or help in deep leagues.

Flash in the pan: Leon Jacobs (LB) had a solid game but only played 27% of snaps this week so any kind of consistent production with that kind of playing time is unsustainable.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Calais Campbell (DE) had a serviceable game and would’ve been right at his projection if he could’ve gotten a sack or a couple tackles for loss, he remains a tier one defensive end and a weekly auto start unless you are loaded at defensive end and played 85% of snaps this week so he’ll be fine. Marcell Dareus (DT) also had a serviceable game if you’re playing him at defensive tackle two in deeper leagues but only played 55% of snaps this week so you may want to keep an eye out for other options with more consistent and better playing time.

Houston Texans

Performed as expected: Zach Cunningham (LB) Bernardrick McKinney (LB)

Possible waiver adds: Whitney Mercilus (EDGE, OLB, LB) is having a monster start to the season and would seem to be a terrific option if your league has the EDGE or OLB slot. As a regular linebacker he’s going to cool off at some point and give you some pretty terrible weeks. He did play 96% of snaps this week and has been red hot the first two weeks of the season so I guess if you need a roll of the dice at regular linebacker in an all IDP or seriously deep league it’s not the worst idea in the world, I’ll pass though I prefer consistency over the occasional huge week.

Flash in the pan: DJ Reader (DT) had a nice week but only played 63% of snaps and is a nose tackle which is traditionally not a great IDP point producing position. He had a hot start to last season as well but cooled off quickly and had far more bad weeks than good, there are better options at defensive tackle out there.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Justin Reid (S) and JJ Watt (DE) both had pretty terrible games this week. Reid played 88% of snaps while Watt was in for 99% so the playing time is there as well as the historical production. I have confidence in both, Reid will be fine and Watt should get his but along with Aaron Donald and Frank Clark. All three are off to a slow start for players we all thought would be close to every week monsters on defensive line this season. With JaDaveon Clowney (DE,LB) going to the Seahawks there is one less terrifying pass rush option for the Texans now, this is allowing opposing offensive lines to concentrate on negating Watt more this season which is not great so far, however he is talented enough and plays enough to eventually overcome this and put up the kind of season we all expect from him.

Patriots @ Dolphins

New England Patriots

Performed as expected: Micheal Bennett (DE) Chase Winovich (DE) Stephon Gilmore (CB)

Possible waiver adds: Jamie Collins (LB) had a massive game this week, he only played 58% of snaps though and with the return of Kyle Van Noy (LB) who played 66% of snaps I’m not confident this will be sustainable. The Patriots IDP in general is all over the place every week, you almost never seem the same kind of playing time from week to week or production. It’s a risk but if you are in a super deep league or all IDP league it could pay off.

Flash in the pan: Adam Butler (DT) had a massive week as well but only played 60% of snaps and is someone I’ve never heard of until today so the historical consistency and productivity is not there and due to the nature of the Patriots IDP with their fluctuations in playing time and production I am staying away from this guy.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: I was just about ready to abandon ship on Micheal Bennett (DE) until he got a late sack and saved his day, he played only 40% of snaps this week though so I would start looking for a better option if you are a Bennett owner. I was intrigued with Chase Winovich (DE) last week and he had another solid game this week but only played 42% of snaps which is not a recipe for consistency. Basically relying on any Patriots IDP weekly is playing Russian roulette.

Miami Dolphins

Performed as expected: Jerome Baker (LB) Minkah Fitzpatrick (S,CB) Xavien Howard (CB)

Possible waiver adds: Sam Eguavoen (LB) didn’t have a great game in the stats department but did play 89% of snaps this week and was around that same percentage last week. Just being a starting linebacker on a team with a terrible offense that looks to be on the field playing defense the majority of most games this season gives him value though. Now with Fitzpatrick leaving for the Steelers that’s even less competition for tackles going forward, he might be a good add to get while his stats don’t look great cause the scenario exists for him to finish the year strong.

Flash in the pan: Davon Godchaux (DT) has risen from the dead these last couple weeks with two serviceable games in a row but the playing time still isn’t there, he was only in for 54% of snaps this week so I’m not ready to pull the trigger yet on him.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Raekwon McMillan (LB) only played 50% of snaps this week and only had four combined tackles in a game where the Miami defense was on the field literally the entire game. If he can’t succeed in that ideal environment he never will, cut bait and blow him out the airlock.

Bills @ Giants

Buffalo Bills

Performed as expected: Tremaine Edmunds (LB) Matt Milano (LB)

Possible waiver adds: Levi Wallace (CB) was talked up all offseason by our own Joey The Tooth and has been a nice surprise so far this year, despite his excellent week this week it would appear teams are trying to avoid targeting Tra’Davious White (CB) making Wallace the benefactor of quite a bit of work so far this year. He played 100% of snaps this week and has 13 combined tackles and 3 passes defensed in two games this season, he is someone I am definitely adding to my pool of streamers and starters for corner I use against pass happy offenses.

Flash in the pan: Siran Neal (S) has had two pretty solid weeks in a row and is appearing on all my “trending transactions” for the Yahoo IDP leagues I’m in this year, don’t fall for it, he only played 34% of snaps this week and was around that same amount of playing time last week also, this kind of production and consistency is not sustainable with that little playing time. Lorenzo Alexander (LB) also had a decent game this week but only played 36% of snaps this week so he’s not worth a look yet either.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: Ed Oliver (DT) played 60% of snaps this week but had his second bad week in a row. By nature defensive tackle is a very spotty position, only the best of the best have any kind of consistency and out of those guys Aaron Donald (DT) hasn’t done anything yet, DeForest Buckner (DT) has like half a good game and Chris Jones (DT) finally did something this week after a horrible week one. Damon Harrison (DT) hasn’t done anything this season either, defensive tackle is a very up and down position for IDP production so when it comes to Oliver I’m still erring on the side of what we saw in college and heard about all offseason, he is an incredible talent and has the opportunity to produce. So unless you have someone on waivers who is miles better than Oliver, which is not likely, I’m hanging on and hoping he starts producing soon, I’m in the same boat as you guys here.

New York Giants

Performed as expected: Antoine Bethea (S) Jabrill Peppers (S) Alec Ogletree (LB)

Possible waiver adds: Markus Golden (DE,LB) played 83% of snaps this week and had a monster week, he was a fairly consistent producer on the Cardinals when he was healthy and is a great option if listed as DL in your league. I know Sleeper has him as a DL,LB so it would make sense some other sites do as well, bottom line is if you can get him as defensive line go for it, he has the playing time and the historical production and would make a great defensive end two in larger leagues or the perfect short term injury replacement or bye week guy. Janoris Jenkins (CB) had a monster week as well and played 97% of snaps this week, he is and has been part of my pool of preferred corners I stream from in matchups against efficient passing offenses.

Flash in the pan: Ryan Connelly (LB) had a nice week and played 84% of snaps this week but completely flopped in week one against a Cowboys team that owned time of possession and ran a ton of offensive plays. So despite the playing time this looks like a one week flash in the pan thing to me but the name is now lodged in my brain so I’ll keep an eye on it going forward. Micheal Thomas (S) also had a nice week but only played 20% of snaps so it’s not sustainable.

Abandon ship or Remain calm: No real bad games from any of the guys we expect to produce here this week and we can remain calm in regards to Ogletree, Bethea, Peppers and Jenkins they all did their job this week.

Seahawks @ Steelers

Seattle Seahawks

Performed as expected: Bobby Wagner (LB) KJ Wright (LB)

Possible waiver adds: KJ Wright (LB) when healthy, has been a rock solid linebacker two for years, he has always been one of my favorite under the radar guys. He will almost certainly be gone in larger leagues and all IDP or dynasty leagues but if you need linebacker help in a shallow redraft league Wright played 95% of snaps this week and is as consistent as they get. He’s been putting up these solid weeks under the radar for years now always overshadowed by Wagner.

Flash in the pan: Brandon Jackson (DE) had a solid week playing 65% of snaps this week but is a name I’ve never seen before. With the injuries to LJ Collier (DE) and Ezekiel Ansah (DE) being a last minute inactive this week (in other news water wet) it’s likely Jackson saw so many snaps due to these factors and not because he’s actually good or they have a significant investment in him. If you did grab him off waivers his value would likely disappear when Collier or Ansah gets back into the lineup. Update: Collier did play 28% of snaps this week but didn’t get involved much, nothing changes here I think as he gets more involved or Ansah starts playing Brandon Jackson (DE) will disappear.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Bradley McDougald (S) is really starting to worry me. The playing time is there, he was in for 100% of snaps this week but only has seven combined tackles between both games this season. He appeared on a list this week that was put out by a well known expert on IDP Twitter which listed him as one of the few true “in the box” safeties so the opportunity to make plays is there in that respect as well but for some reason it hasn’t happened so far this year. This kind of thing started to show up last season and it appears it’s only getting worse, this may not be the most popular advice but for me personally I’m moving on, I was able to get Tracy Walker (S) in a couple leagues where I was relying on McDougald and feel far more comfortable riding that boat than sinking with this one, it’s ultimately up to you but I don’t have a great feeling about McDougald this season.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Performed as expected: Devin Bush (LB) Terrell Edmunds (S) TJ Watt (EDGE, OLB, LB) Stephon Tuitt (DE)

Possible waiver adds: Mark Barron (LB) was up to 100% of snaps played this week and beat out Devin Bush (LB) by 20% in the snaps played department, that’s not expected at all but you should take advantage of it. If Barron is going to be a three down linebacker he becomes a must have, he recorded six combined tackles with half a sack and half a tackle for loss this week putting his production in the end of tier two range. Whether or not he continues to play this much remains to be seen but through the first two weeks he does look like a great candidate for waiver wire linebacker help if you need it.

Flash in the pan: Stephen Nelson (CB) had a nice game and played 100% of snaps but isn’t nearly consistent enough for me to be interested in adding him to my pool of preferred cornerbacks to start or stream against efficient passing offenses.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Cameron Heyward (DT, DE) had a bit of a down game this week but was still serviceable overall, if you are playing him at defensive tackle you need to remain calm that’s just the nature of the position and production. He still had three solo tackles and a tackle for loss which isn’t bad at all for a tier two defensive tackle so we can all remain calm here. Vince Williams (LB) however only played 13% of snaps this week and only had two solo tackles on the day, it’s likely time to blast him out the airlock and look for another option at linebacker.

Colts @ Titans

Indianapolis Colts

Performed as expected: Darius Leonard (LB) Denico Autry (DT)

Possible waiver adds: Al Quadin Muhammad (DE) played 83% of snaps this week and had a solid week sans-sack. Four solo tackles and a tackle for loss is solid production at defensive end. What intrigues me even more than that is the playing time, 83% of snaps played is up there with guys like DeMarcus Lawrence (DE) and Joey Bosa (DE). Defensive line is such a hit or miss position all you can do is find guys that play a lot and are as close to consistent as you can find and plug them in and pray. Muhammad is looking like a great waiver wire option if you need defensive end help.

Flash in the pan: Khari Willis (S) had a really nice week but only played 49% of snaps this week, I’ve seen some chatter on IDP Twitter about Willis eventually taking Clayton Geathers (S) job but right now today this kind of playing time won’t lead to sustainable production. We’ll keep an eye on it and if you have the space on your bench it might not be a terrible idea to add Willis in case this does happen but unless his playing time drastically increases he won’t be worth anything this season.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Kenny Moore (CB) had a down week but played 98% of snaps and was involved in a not great matchup against the Titans who really don’t have much of a passing attack, he’ll be fine and is a must play against efficient passing offenses. Clayton Geathers (S) had a terrible week and his playing time took a hit as well playing only 69% of snaps this week, with some rumblings of Khari Willis (S) coming for his job this is a situation we will definitely have to monitor, he has a long history of injury shortened seasons anyways so he almost always ends up on the waiver wire with a D or IR next to his name so I guess we’re just skipping the middle man this year. Get your life raft ready with Geathers.

Tennessee Titans

Performed as expected: Jayon Brown (LB) Rashaan Evans (LB) Kenny Vaccaro (S) Kevin Byard (S) Jurell Casey (DT) Logan Ryan (CB)

Possible waiver adds: None really stick out this week, Rashaan Evans (LB) and Kenny Vaccaro (S) are probably still available in most redraft leagues feel free to add them if you need linebacker or safety help. Harold Landry (EDGE,OLB) had a nice week as well and is a great fit as an EDGE or OLB but will be massively inconsistent week to week as a regular linebacker.

Flash in the pan: Remember when I said Cameron Wake (DE) wasn’t playing enough to sustain the ridiculous production he had in week one? Well he played 23% of snaps this week, even less than week one, and came crashing back down to earth with just one solo tackle on the day. Definition of flash in the pan. Daquon Jones (DT) is this weeks winner, playing only 54% of snaps at nose tackle, which is notoriously bad position for IDP production, he had six combined tackles in a terrific game. Not enough playing time and the wrong king of defensive tackle for any kind of sustainability. Nothing to see here, move along.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: No need to put on your life vests this week, the only area where we might need to remain calm though is with the corners. The Titans cornerbacks are without a doubt the best IDP producing unit out there as a whole, in a matchup against a team like the Chiefs you could put the Titans corners names on some pieces of paper, line them up on a dart board and fire a dart into it. Whichever name you hit on that board you could start in your corner slot that week with that matchup and I’d bet you the farm that whoever that corner is would end up giving you a great game that week. They always do well and are always at the top of these Titans box scores I’ve been reading for years, they just ALL do well when they play a team that can really throw the ball and the Colts with Jacoby Brisette (QB) do not fit that description.

Cowboys @ Redskins

Dallas Cowboys

Performed as expected: Jaylon Smith (LB)

Possible waiver adds: Kavon Frazier (S) looks like the early favorite to replace the injured and out Xavier Woods (S) but we only got a quick look at it this week since Woods got hurt late in the game. This week will tell the story, for me though I’m not really into any Dallas safeties, they are generally inconsistent and the majority of tackles get eaten up by the Hotboyz, Predator and Wolf before they get anywhere near the safeties. Sure they have the occasional big game as a unit but I’m looking elsewhere for safety help. Still if you are desperate for a safety theres a decent chance Kavon Frazier (S) walks into that role and that playing time which is near 100% of snaps each game.

Flash in the pan: Tyrone Crawford (DE) had a nice game but only played 31% of snaps this week, obviously that’s not enough playing time for any kind of consistency.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: DeMarcus Lawrence (DE) and Leighton Vander Esch (LB) both had down weeks but played 75% and 88% of snaps respectively and will be absolutely fine. You can’t be a rock star every week and both these guys will finish the season as easy tier one performers as long as they aren’t injured. Remain calm.

Washington Redskins

Performed as expected: Landon Collins (S) Ryan Kerrigan (EDGE,OLB) Matt Ioannidis (DE) Montez Sweat (EDGE,OLB)

Possible waiver adds: Montae Nicholson (S) continues to look like a pretty good option if you need safety help, this is the second week in a row I’ve talked about him so he’s beginning to show some consistency. Cole Holcomb (LB) played 90% of snaps this week seeing a slight uptick in playing time but a slight decrease in production. He remains a nice option if you need linebacker help. Jon Bostic (LB) got up to 80% of snaps this week so he’s looking a little safer to start at the moment.

Flash in the pan: Shaun Dion Hamilton (LB) had five combined tackles this week but lost playing time yet again falling to 30% of snaps this week, he is a flash in the pan this week as well as an abandon ship.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Deshazor Everett (S) only played 19% of snaps this week yet somehow was projected to have a great game on MFL, they haven’t gotten the memo yet I guess. Shaun Dion Hamilton (LB) has been trending down in playing time despite having a little better week with production against Dallas. Despite the preseason hype the outlook is terrible in redraft and not much brighter in dynasty at the moment, blow him out the airlock in redraft and hold in dynasty if you have the room.

Chiefs @ Raiders

Kansas City Chiefs

Performed as expected: Kendall Fuller (CB) Anthony Hitchens (LB) Chris Jones (DT)

Possible waiver adds: Damien Wilson (LB) played 79% of snaps this week and had five combined tackles and a pass defense on the day, his playing time the last two weeks has been solid and the production is reminding me of Reggie Ragland (LB) in previous seasons playing this same position for this same team. Wilson remains a nice tier three option if you need linebacker help in bigger leagues.

Flash in the pan: Bashaud Breeland (CB) led the Chiefs in all IDP production this week and played 100% of snaps as well. He is not the corner to own on the Chiefs though, Kendall Fuller (CB) is and will be for at least this season. You could start or stream Breeland in larger or all IDP leagues but there are at least fifteen other guys I can think of without even checking depth charts I would rather have in my preferred cornerback pool of players.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Frank Clark (DE) has had a slow start, no argument there. The playing time is there, 89% of snaps this week and similar last week. He had three combined tackles and a tackle for loss which is actually pretty serviceable for a defensive end for a week where they don’t get a sack. I keep seeing people talking about dropping him and chasing points from prior weeks off the waiver wire though, that’s crazy. Clark has the talent, playing time and game-script opportunity that playing on the Chiefs affords him and Chris Jones (DT) that you can’t find anywhere else. The Chiefs score so fast opposing teams find themselves throwing the ball to try and keep up early and often which means Clark is always pass rushing. The sacks will come, have patience my children.

Oakland Raiders

Performed as expected: Tahir Whitehead (LB) Vontaze Burfict (LB) *Maybe a tackle or two less than you would want but it’s in the wheelhouse* Lamarcus Joyner (S)

Possible waiver adds: Jonathan Hankins (DT) had a bump in playing time this week up to 76% of snaps this week and some added production came along with it to the tune of five combined tackles, one tackle for loss and one pass defense.

Flash in the pan: Marquel Lee (LB) had six combined tackles this week but had most of them on special teams. He only played 8% of defensive snaps and trying to rely on special teams tackles for weekly production is insanity. These aren’t the droids you’re looking for.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Maurice Hurst (DT) hovered around 50% of snaps again this week but had a terrible week with only one tackle on the day, Hankins looks to be the defensive tackle to own for the Raiders at the moment. Abandon ship on Hurst in redraft but hold in dynasty if you have the room.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoCb0fcCsN-RgMfsY33yzfA

Bears @ Broncos

Denver Broncos

Performed as expected: Justin Simmons (S) Bradley Chubb (DE,EDGE,OLB) Josey Jewell (LB)

Possible waiver adds: Derek Wolfe (DE) is and has been a great bye week fill in or short term injury replacement at defensive end I’ve always been a fan, 85% of snaps this week and a solid game. Todd Davis (LB) will be returning from injury soon, if someone dropped the ball on this and dropped him to waivers go get him, he’s a monster for his price.

Flash in the pan: None this week, the entire top of the box score is filled in with the guys who belong there.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Von Miller (EDGE,OLB,LB) had a terrible game and should only be played in an EDGE or OLB slot in your league unless it’s a big play league and you can live with weeks like this (two combined tackles). I’ve always been a fan of consistency so you won’t catch me putting up with weeks like this in my regular linebacker slots, no thank you.

Chicago Bears

Performed as expected: Roquan Smith (LB) Danny Trevethan (LB) Eddie Jackson (S) Kyle Fuller (CB) Khalil Mack (EDGE,OLB,LB)

Possible waiver adds: Leonard Floyd (LB,DL) didn’t do much this week but had the opportunity (79% of snaps played) and is still a nice option if he’s listed as defensive line in your league.

Flash in the pan: Nick Williams (DT) had a nice week with the sack but only played 37% of snaps so this kind of production will be not sustainable. Find defensive tackle help elsewhere.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Akiem Hicks (DT) had a down week but played 80% of snaps and is coming off a career season last year, the addition of Khalil Mack (LB) has made everyone around him better and there was no better example of that last season than Hicks, keep playing him and remain calm.

Saints @ Rams

New Orleans Saints

Performed as expected: Cameron Jordan (DE) Marcus Davenport (DE) Demario Davis (LB)

Possible waiver adds: AJ Klein (LB) played 79% of snaps this week which is surprising with Kiko Alonso (LB) coming to the team and Alex Anzalone (LB) getting a lot of hype by IDP Twitter in the offseason. At week two it looks like he is the other linebacker to own besides Demario Davis (LB) playing 79% of snaps this week and recording five combined tackles, for me it’s still too early to pull the trigger but if you need linebacker help badly in deeper leagues it’s not a terrible idea. Eli Apple (CB) is back to playing 100% of snaps and getting targeted constantly by opposing offenses because he isn’t all that good. This makes him a great IDP cornerback so feel free to start or stream him in matchups against solid passing offenses.

Flash in the pan: Trey Hendrickson (DE) had his second nice week in a row but only played 58% of snaps and is competing with the likes of Cameron Jordan (DE), Marcus Davenport (DE) and Sheldon Rankins (DT) when he returns from injury. He’s going to have a hard time reaching the quarterback before those guys do so despite the hot early start I’m all set, pass for me.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Kiko Alonso (LB) only played 6% of snaps and did nothing at all this week, I’m done with him and have been since he put up zero points in week sixteen last season (championship week) and screwed me out of winning a big money league. But for everyone else the writing on the wall is starting to show up as well, I would look for a backup plan if he’s still an integral part of your roster.

Los Angeles Rams

Performed as expected: Cory Littleton (LB) John Johnson (S) Micheal Brockers (DE) Eric Weddle (S)

Possible waiver adds: Taylor Rapp (S) used his week one sub in for the then injured Eric Weddle (S) and parlayed it into more playing time this week. He was in for 63% of snaps as opposed to 48% in week one and also had a nice week with six combined tackles and a pass defense. He is likely already owned in dynasty but could provide some help in redraft for safeties.

Flash in the pan: Nickell Robey Coleman (CB) had a great week but only played 65% of snaps, not nearly enough at cornerback to have any kind of consistency, pass.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Aaron Donald (DT) is the only remain calm this week and we don’t need to abandon ship on anyone. Donald started last season slow also and ended the season with twenty plus sacks, have patience my children, good things come to those who wait.

Eagles @ Falcons

Atlanta Falcons

Performed as expected: Keanu Neal (S) Deion Jones (LB) Grady Jarrett (DT)

Possible waiver adds: Damontae Kazee (S) had his playing time skyrocket into this week from 23% up to 85% this week, he had eight combined tackles and looked like he did last season in relief of the then injured Keanu Neal (S). If this keeps up he’s a no brainer safety waiver add, pull the trigger now if you’re afraid he won’t be there next week but I want to see another week of this kind of playing time before I do so myself. Devondre Campbell (LB) had another nice game and played 85% of snaps as well, he could be a good option if you need linebacker help.

Flash in the pan: Adrian Clayborn (DE) and Vic Beasley (DE) both had sacks this week and played 43% and 68% of snaps respectively which at least in Beasleys case is enough playing time for some kind of sustainability. However they both have historically been bad and nothing has really changed for either of them so I’m all set with both.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Not applicable this week, some people wanted to abandon ship on Keanu Neal (S) after his week one shenanigans however and they should now see the error in their ways.

Philadelphia Eagles

Performed as expected: They all had bad weeks compared to their projections basically, Andrew Sendejo (S) performed to and exceeded his projections though.

Possible waiver adds: Zach Brown (LB) had his snap percentage shoot up this week to 76% of snaps and had a nice day as well with seven combined tackles, he used to be an IDP all star and if he can maintain around this kind of playing time he could at least return to relevance. Possible linebacker waiver add if you’re feeling punchy.

Flash in the pan: Avonte Maddox (CB) had a nice game but only played 65% of snaps which as we’ve already established isn’t enough for the kind of consistency we want. Pass.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Nigel Bradham (LB), Fletcher Cox (DT), Derek Barnett (DE) and Brandon Graham (DE) all had sub par games this week. It happens. Bradham remains an end of tier two linebacker, Barnett and Graham tier two defensive ends and Fletcher Cox a top ten defensive tackle who’s off to a slow start, remain calm on all of the above.

Browns @ Jets

Cleveland Browns

Performed as expected: Myles Garrett (DE) Joe Schobert (LB) Morgan Burnett (S) Denzel Ward (CB) Sheldon Richardson (DT)

Possible waiver adds: Jermaine Whitehead (S) played 100% of snaps this week and had six combined tackles, he won’t be as consistent considering he’s a free safety but in deeper leagues his playing time alone is worth a waiver add if you need safety help.

Flash in the pan: Mack Wilson (LB) only played 16% of snaps this week but had four combined tackles which is way out of whack, I’m surprised he got anywhere north of one tackle with that little playing time. Needless to say he’s not worth much with this little opportunity.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Christian Kirksey (LB) Larry Ogunjobi (DT) and Olivier Vernon (DE) all had down weeks but with so many IDP mouths to feed on this defense not everyone is going to blow up every week, continue to play Kirksey as a linebacker two or preferably three, Ogunjobi as a defensive tackle two and Vernon as a defensive end two preferably three. Remain calm.

New York Jets

Performed as expected: Neville Hewitt (LB) Jamal Adams (S)

Possible waiver adds: Blake Cashman (LB) is an absolute must have as long as CJ Mosley (LB) is injured and out, Cashman filled in this week to the tune of six combined tackles, half a sack, one and a half tackles for loss, a pass defensed and a QB hit. Those are awesome numbers for a guy a lot of people only picked up once they saw the news that Mosley was out for Monday night. If he’s out again this is a no brainer, and there’s a chance he eventually replaces Hewitt as the second inside linebacker in that defense with the way he played on Monday night so he might be worth an add anyways.

Flash in the pan: Not applicable this week, the top of the box score had the people there who should be there.

Remain calm or Abandon ship: Nothing to really freak out about currently, we just need Quinnen Williams (DT) and CJ Mosley (LB) to get healthy and get back in that lineup as soon as possible.

Thank you for reading and be sure to follow me on Twitter (@Orangeman3142) for my Thursday night game start or sit and keep an eye on idpguys.org on Saturday morning for my full start or sit article. Good luck in all your matchups this week and continue to follow us at idpguys.org your one stop shop for all things IDP

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