7 Stats You Must Know For Week 3 (Sneaky Starts)

Ron Stewart uses Dylan Samson as a statistical benchmark, noting that RJ Harvey ranks just behind him in fantasy points per route run.

Geno Smith is the recommended QB streamer of the week for deep leagues, particularly for managers replacing injured starters like Jayden Daniels. Although ranked as QB20, he faces a Lions defense allowing a league-high 33.5 points per game to quarterbacks. Smith has performed well against the blitz this season, ranking 4th in passing yards, 5th in yards per attempt, and 10th in fantasy points per dropback against pressure.

Ron Stewart notes that RJ Harvey is tied with Jahmyr Gibbs at 0.51 fantasy points per route run, highlighting Harvey's efficiency as a receiver.

Ron Stewart mentions Jonathan Brooks as a player who has underperformed and is now on IR, serving as context for why a manager might need to start a player like RJ Harvey.

Malik Washington is a recommended deep-league WR start (WR44), ranking six spots higher than consensus. Ron Stewart notes Washington leads all Miami wide receivers in targets and routes run, and expects him to be peppered with targets against a Chiefs defense that struggles against slot receivers. The source also took the 'higher' on his 2.5 receptions projection in fantasy pick'em.

Puka Nacua is listed as doubtful for the upcoming game, which Ron Stewart identifies as the primary catalyst for Terrence Ferguson's increased opportunity in the slot.

Ron Stewart ranks Judkins as his RB22 for Week 3, three spots higher than consensus, citing a favorable matchup against a Panthers defense that has allowed the second-most rushing yards (833) to running backs over their last six games. Judkins is a 'between-the-tackles' runner who benefits from playing at home, where he averages 14.3 points per game compared to 9.8 on the road. Additionally, he saw a 17% target share last week and is expected to operate as a three-down back in a high-pace game environment. Stewart also took the 'higher' on his 59.5 rushing yards projection in a fantasy pick'em entry.

Ron Stewart ranks Terrence Ferguson as his TE14, six spots above consensus, recommending him as a top tight end streamer. Ferguson is rostered in only 25% of ESPN leagues and is considered a better play than other options like Arande Gadston and Harold Fannon. His value is tied to his role in the slot, where he excelled in week two, and the expected absence of Puka Nacua.

Xavier Hutchinson is a recommended desperation lineup filler for deep 3-WR leagues, ranked as WR52 (five spots higher than consensus). He led all Texans in routes run and air yards (118) last week, finishing as the WR57 despite usage metrics (targets, aDOT) suggesting top-30 potential. He faces a Colts defense that allows the most fantasy points to slot receivers in the NFL.