Following a week that saw several lower-profile (and lowly priced) players put up big fantasy numbers, Week 9 of the NFL season feels like another slate that could see some surprises. Certainly, there are some extremely cheap options at each position this week, topped by Jordan Love at QB.
Let’s look at five players under $5,000 on DraftKings who fit that bill:
Jordan Love, Packers QB ($4,400)
I was soundly mocked on Reddit last week for suggesting that users sprinkle Justin Fields into a few Week 8 lineups as a value play. I wonder what side dishes those detractors like with their crow. It’s hard to be as high on Love this week, but since he’s so cheap, he’s worth discussing. With Aaron Rodgers out under COVID-19 protocols, Love gets his first start in his second year in the league. The Chiefs’ pass defense is worst-in-the-league bad (almost), but the game is in Kansas City; a tough task for a first-time starter. On the other hand, with a salary this low, we can plug in high-priced guys at other positions thanks to the salary savings.
Jordan Howard, Eagles RB ($4,600)
With starter Miles Sanders on injured reserve, Howard and Boston Scott will get the bulk of the running back duties. The Eagles’ running game really clicked last week against the lowly Lions. While the Chargers are a better team than Detroit, they can be beaten on the ground.
Hunter Renfrow, Raiders WR ($4,800)
The Las Vegas pass-catcher continues to be a solid option on DraftKings, which uses a point-per-reception format. Renfrow has caught at least five passes in six of seven games. Given the tragic events of the past week and Henry Ruggs’ felony charges of DUI resulting in death and reckless driving, Renfrow could become even more of a focal point for the offense this week.
Rashod Bateman, Ravens WR ($4,000)
The rookie began the season on injured reserve, but has quickly established himself as a downfield threat, with six targets in each of his first two games. He caught three passes for 80 yards in his second NFL game two weeks ago against the Bengals. Bateman could be a sneaky value play against the poor Vikings pass defense in Week 9.
Dallas Goedert, Eagles TE ($4,500)
Since Philadelphia traded Zach Ertz to Arizona, Goedert has put up strong numbers: nine receptions on 12 targets for 142 yards in two games. The Chargers aren’t very good at defending the tight end position, ranking 30th in the NFL in fantasy points allowed.