Week 1 featured the usual DFS surprises, as some veterans got fewer snaps than expected, popular picks went down with injuries, and a few rookies garnered more attention in their offenses than anticipated.
Let’s look ahead to Week 2 and the sub-$5,000 value plays on DraftKings. No starting quarterbacks fit the bill this week, but we enjoy plenty of choices at the other positions.
Chase Edmonds, Cardinals RB ($4,900)
While Chase Edmonds splits carries for the Cardinals with James Conner, he got all of the running back targets from quarterback Kyler Murray in Week 1, catching four passes for 43 yards. That will make him an important piece of the Arizona offense moving forward, and too cheap on DraftKings at under $5,000.
James White, Patriots RB ($4,600)
White’s the type of back you’d never draft on FanDuel – few rushes, but lots of receptions. The point-per-reception format makes him a valuable commodity on DraftKings, however, and White showed why last week, tying for the team lead with six receptions. He gained 49 yards on those catches, adding four rushes for 12 yards. He should remain a valuable check-down option (and even snag receptions on designed plays) for rookie quarterback Mac Jones as he continues to get his NFL sea legs under him.
Tim Patrick, Broncos WR ($4,600)
With Jerry Jeudy out for several weeks with a high ankle sprain, Teddy Bridgewater will spread those targets to other receivers. Many touts suggest KJ Hamler ($3,800) as a trendy pick this week. But because his name is being mentioned so much, I suspect Hamler will be highly owned. Instead, consider Patrick, who kept pace with Hamler in Week 1 with four catches for 39 yards and a touchdown.
KJ Osborn, Vikings WR ($3,300)
While it’s clear that Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson are the top two receivers for the Vikings, Osborn had a day in Week 1, with seven catches on nine targets for 76 yards. He’s worth consideration this week in what could be a shootout at Arizona, especially at almost the minimum price.
Jared Cook, Chargers TE ($3,900)
Cook got most of the reps for the Chargers at the tight end position in Week 1, catching five of eight targets for 56 yards. He looks to be the top receiver at that position for the Chargers this season, and could be in for a big game against the Cowboys, who were one of the worst at defending the tight end position last season.