Week 1 Start 'Em Sit 'Em: Your CBS Fantasy Football Guide

Hey guys! Welcome to the 2024 NFL season! And more importantly, welcome to Week 1 of fantasy football! Getting off to a hot start is crucial, and that means making the right calls on who to start and who to sit. It's tough, I know, especially in Week 1 when we're all just trying to decipher off-season hype and coaching speak. That's where this CBS Start 'Em, Sit 'Em guide comes in handy. I'll break down some key players at each position, giving you my take on who should be in your lineup and who should stay on your bench. So, let's dive in and get you ready to dominate your Week 1 matchups!

Quarterbacks: Start 'Em

Alright, let's kick things off with the quarterbacks. Finding a reliable QB is the cornerstone of any successful fantasy team. Here are a few guys I'm particularly high on this week:

• Joe Burrow (CIN): Okay, I know Burrow had a rough preseason with that calf injury, but hear me out. He's Joe Burrow! The guy is a stud, and he's got an arsenal of weapons at his disposal. Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd are all capable of making big plays. Plus, the Bengals are playing the Browns, who, while boasting a fearsome pass rush, can be susceptible to giving up points through the air. I'm betting Burrow shakes off the rust and comes out firing. Start him with confidence. Burrow's ability to read defenses and make quick decisions makes him a valuable asset in fantasy football. His connection with Chase is particularly potent, often resulting in explosive plays. The Bengals' offensive scheme is designed to maximize Burrow's strengths, allowing him to distribute the ball effectively to his talented receivers. Even against a tough Browns defense, Burrow's potential for a high-scoring performance is too significant to ignore. Fantasy managers should feel comfortable inserting Burrow into their starting lineups, expecting a strong performance to kick off the season. Furthermore, Burrow's mobility, while not his primary asset, allows him to extend plays and pick up crucial yards, adding another dimension to his fantasy value. The Bengals' coaching staff has shown a commitment to utilizing Burrow's strengths, ensuring that he remains a focal point of their offensive strategy. With a favorable matchup and a full complement of weapons, Burrow is poised to deliver a top-tier fantasy performance in Week 1.
• Justin Fields (CHI): This is the year Fields finally puts it all together, right? I think so. The Bears have invested heavily in improving his supporting cast, bringing in DJ Moore and adding to the offensive line. Fields' rushing ability gives him a massive floor, and if he can improve as a passer, the sky's the limit. They play the Packers, who are in a bit of a transition period defensively. Fields could surprise some people. Definitely start him. Fields' dual-threat capabilities make him an incredibly valuable asset in fantasy football. His ability to rack up rushing yards and touchdowns provides a consistent floor, while his improving passing skills offer the potential for explosive games. The addition of DJ Moore to the Bears' receiving corps gives Fields a legitimate number-one target, enhancing his potential for big plays through the air. The Packers' defense, while historically strong, is undergoing changes, making them a vulnerable opponent for Fields to exploit. Fantasy managers should be excited about Fields' potential this season and should confidently start him in Week 1. Moreover, the Bears' offensive scheme is designed to capitalize on Fields' strengths, incorporating both designed runs and play-action passes to keep defenses off balance. With a favorable matchup and a growing rapport with his receivers, Fields is poised to deliver a breakout performance in Week 1.

Quarterbacks: Sit 'Em

On the flip side, here are a couple of quarterbacks I'm avoiding this week:

• Deshaun Watson (CLE): Look, I know Watson has the potential to be a top-tier QB, but we haven't seen it consistently since he arrived in Cleveland. He looked rusty last season, and I need to see it before I believe it. Plus, they're playing the Bengals, who have a solid defense. I'm keeping him on the bench for now. Sit him. Watson's performance last season was underwhelming, and he struggled to recapture the form that made him a fantasy star in Houston. The Browns' offense has undergone some changes, but it remains to be seen whether Watson can effectively lead the unit. The Bengals' defense is a tough matchup, making it risky to start Watson in Week 1. Fantasy managers should exercise caution and consider alternative options at quarterback. Furthermore, Watson's chemistry with his receivers is still developing, and the Browns' offensive line has question marks. These factors contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Watson's potential for a strong performance in Week 1. Until Watson demonstrates consistent production, fantasy managers should keep him on the bench and monitor his progress in subsequent weeks. Starting Watson in Week 1 carries significant risk, and there are likely better options available on the waiver wire or in deeper leagues.
• Kenny Pickett (PIT): I like Pickett's long-term potential, but the Steelers' offense is still a work in progress. They're playing the 49ers, who have one of the best defenses in the league. This is a tough matchup for any quarterback, let alone a young one like Pickett. Sit him. Pickett's rookie season was marked by inconsistency, and the Steelers' offense struggled to find its rhythm. The 49ers' defense is a formidable opponent, making it a challenging matchup for Pickett in Week 1. Fantasy managers should temper expectations for Pickett and consider other quarterbacks with more favorable matchups. Moreover, the Steelers' offensive line has question marks, and Pickett's supporting cast lacks proven playmakers. These factors contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Pickett's potential for a strong performance in Week 1. Until Pickett demonstrates significant improvement, fantasy managers should keep him on the bench and monitor his progress in subsequent weeks. Starting Pickett in Week 1 carries considerable risk, and there are likely better options available on the waiver wire or in deeper leagues.

Running Backs: Start 'Em

Now, let's move on to the running backs. Finding those workhorse RBs can win you weeks: — Decoding The 72166 Phone Number: Location, Use & More

• Bijan Robinson (ATL): Okay, this one's pretty obvious. Robinson is the real deal. The Falcons drafted him in the first round for a reason. He's got the talent and the opportunity to be a fantasy superstar. They're playing the Panthers, who have a decent defense, but Robinson is matchup-proof. Start him every week. Robinson's combination of talent and opportunity makes him a must-start in fantasy football. The Falcons invested heavily in him, signaling their intent to make him a focal point of their offense. His ability to run between the tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and break long runs makes him a valuable asset in all formats. The Panthers' defense is a respectable unit, but Robinson's versatility and volume should outweigh the matchup concerns. Fantasy managers should feel confident inserting Robinson into their starting lineups and expecting a strong performance. Furthermore, the Falcons' offensive scheme is designed to maximize Robinson's strengths, utilizing him in a variety of roles. With a favorable workload and a dynamic skillset, Robinson is poised to deliver a top-tier fantasy performance in Week 1.
• Tony Pollard (DAL): This is Pollard's backfield now. No more splitting carries with Ezekiel Elliott. He's got the explosiveness to be a top-5 RB. They're playing the Giants, who are decent against the run, but Pollard's too talented to keep on the bench. Start him. Pollard's emergence as the lead back in Dallas makes him a highly valuable asset in fantasy football. His explosive running style and receiving ability give him a high ceiling each week. The Giants' defense is a solid unit, but Pollard's talent and volume should outweigh the matchup concerns. Fantasy managers should be excited about Pollard's potential this season and should confidently start him in Week 1. Moreover, the Cowboys' offensive scheme is designed to capitalize on Pollard's strengths, utilizing him in a variety of roles. With a favorable workload and a dynamic skillset, Pollard is poised to deliver a top-tier fantasy performance in Week 1.

Running Backs: Sit 'Em

• Dameon Pierce (HOU): Pierce had a promising rookie season, but the Texans have added competition in the backfield. Plus, they're playing the Ravens, who have a stout run defense. I'm a little worried about his workload this week. Sit him if you have better options. Pierce's rookie season showed promise, but the Texans have added talent to their backfield, creating uncertainty about his workload. The Ravens' defense is a tough matchup, making it risky to start Pierce in Week 1. Fantasy managers should exercise caution and consider alternative options at running back. Furthermore, the Texans' offensive line has question marks, and Pierce's role in the passing game is unclear. These factors contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Pierce's potential for a strong performance in Week 1. Until Pierce demonstrates a consistent workload, fantasy managers should keep him on the bench and monitor his progress in subsequent weeks. Starting Pierce in Week 1 carries significant risk, and there are likely better options available on the waiver wire or in deeper leagues.
• AJ Dillon (GB): With Aaron Jones healthy, Dillon's role is limited. He's a touchdown-dependent player, and that's never a good thing in fantasy. They're playing the Bears, who are decent against the run. Sit him. Dillon's value is tied to his ability to score touchdowns, which makes him a volatile fantasy option. With Aaron Jones healthy, Dillon's workload is likely to be limited. The Bears' defense is a respectable unit, making it a challenging matchup for Dillon in Week 1. Fantasy managers should temper expectations for Dillon and consider other running backs with more secure roles. Moreover, Dillon's lack of involvement in the passing game further limits his fantasy upside. These factors contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Dillon's potential for a strong performance in Week 1. Until Dillon demonstrates a more consistent role in the Packers' offense, fantasy managers should keep him on the bench and monitor his progress in subsequent weeks. Starting Dillon in Week 1 carries considerable risk, and there are likely better options available on the waiver wire or in deeper leagues.

Wide Receivers: Start 'Em

Time for the wideouts! These guys can be boom-or-bust, so choosing wisely is key. — Sam's Club Party Platters: Guide, Prices & Reviews

• DeAndre Hopkins (TEN): Hopkins is the clear WR1 in Tennessee, and Ryan Tannehill is going to be looking his way early and often. The Saints matchup isn't ideal, but Hopkins' target share should make up for it. Start him. Hopkins' arrival in Tennessee immediately establishes him as the top receiver in the offense. His proven track record and rapport with Ryan Tannehill make him a valuable asset in fantasy football. The Saints' defense is a formidable unit, but Hopkins' target share should mitigate the matchup concerns. Fantasy managers should feel confident inserting Hopkins into their starting lineups and expecting a solid performance. Furthermore, the Titans' offensive scheme is likely to feature Hopkins prominently, ensuring a steady stream of targets. With a favorable workload and a reliable quarterback, Hopkins is poised to deliver a strong fantasy performance in Week 1.
• DK Metcalf (SEA): Metcalf is a physical freak with a great connection with Geno Smith. The Rams' defense is in rebuild mode, so Metcalf should have a field day. Start him. Metcalf's size, speed, and athleticism make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His connection with Geno Smith has blossomed, making him a reliable target in the Seahawks' offense. The Rams' defense is undergoing significant changes, making them a vulnerable opponent for Metcalf to exploit. Fantasy managers should be excited about Metcalf's potential this season and should confidently start him in Week 1. Moreover, the Seahawks' offensive scheme is designed to capitalize on Metcalf's strengths, utilizing him in a variety of ways. With a favorable matchup and a reliable quarterback, Metcalf is poised to deliver a top-tier fantasy performance in Week 1.

Wide Receivers: Sit 'Em

• Michael Thomas (NO): I want to believe in the Michael Thomas comeback, but I need to see it first. He's been injured for so long, and the Titans have a decent secondary. I'm keeping him on the bench until he proves he's healthy and productive. Sit him. Thomas' career has been derailed by injuries, and his current health status is uncertain. The Titans' defense is a respectable unit, making it a challenging matchup for Thomas in Week 1. Fantasy managers should exercise caution and consider alternative options at wide receiver. Furthermore, Thomas' chemistry with Derek Carr is unproven, and his role in the Saints' offense is unclear. These factors contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Thomas' potential for a strong performance in Week 1. Until Thomas demonstrates sustained health and productivity, fantasy managers should keep him on the bench and monitor his progress in subsequent weeks. Starting Thomas in Week 1 carries significant risk, and there are likely better options available on the waiver wire or in deeper leagues.
• Skyy Moore (KC): Moore is getting a lot of hype as a potential breakout player, but I'm not buying it yet. The Lions have a solid defense, and Moore is still unproven. I'm waiting to see him produce before I start him. Sit him. Moore is a promising young receiver, but his role in the Chiefs' offense is still developing. The Lions' defense is a solid unit, making it a challenging matchup for Moore in Week 1. Fantasy managers should temper expectations for Moore and consider other wide receivers with more established roles. Moreover, Moore's target share is uncertain, and his chemistry with Patrick Mahomes is still evolving. These factors contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Moore's potential for a strong performance in Week 1. Until Moore demonstrates consistent production, fantasy managers should keep him on the bench and monitor his progress in subsequent weeks. Starting Moore in Week 1 carries considerable risk, and there are likely better options available on the waiver wire or in deeper leagues.

Tight Ends: Start 'Em

Let's talk tight ends. Finding a consistent TE can be a real difference-maker.

• Darren Waller (NYG): Waller is the clear TE1 in New York, and Daniel Jones loves throwing to his tight ends. The Cowboys matchup is tough, but Waller's talent should shine through. Start him. Waller's arrival in New York immediately establishes him as the top tight end in the offense. His proven track record and rapport with Daniel Jones make him a valuable asset in fantasy football. The Cowboys' defense is a formidable unit, but Waller's talent should mitigate the matchup concerns. Fantasy managers should feel confident inserting Waller into their starting lineups and expecting a solid performance. Furthermore, the Giants' offensive scheme is likely to feature Waller prominently, ensuring a steady stream of targets. With a favorable workload and a reliable quarterback, Waller is poised to deliver a strong fantasy performance in Week 1.

Tight Ends: Sit 'Em

• Cole Kmet (CHI): Kmet has the potential to be a decent tight end, but the Bears' offense is still a work in progress. I'm not sure he'll get enough targets to be fantasy-relevant this week. Sit him. Kmet has shown flashes of potential, but his role in the Bears' offense is still developing. The Packers' defense is a respectable unit, making it a challenging matchup for Kmet in Week 1. Fantasy managers should temper expectations for Kmet and consider other tight ends with more established roles. Moreover, Kmet's target share is uncertain, and his chemistry with Justin Fields is still evolving. These factors contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Kmet's potential for a strong performance in Week 1. Until Kmet demonstrates consistent production, fantasy managers should keep him on the bench and monitor his progress in subsequent weeks. Starting Kmet in Week 1 carries considerable risk, and there are likely better options available on the waiver wire or in deeper leagues.

Alright, guys, that's it for my Week 1 Start 'Em, Sit 'Em guide! Good luck with your matchups, and I'll see you next week! — Join Nearpod: A Guide To Interactive Learning