1. Ashton Jeanty Looks Like a Rookie Phenom

Last week, TreVeyon Henderson stole the spotlight, but in Week 2, Ashton Jeanty proved why he’s a top-tier rookie running back. His 5 carries for 33 yards and a touchdown against the Jets weren’t jaw-dropping, but his physicality was. Jeanty ran with power, consistently pushing past initial contact—a trait scouts projected for the NFL. For fantasy managers who’ve already drafted him, this performance reinforces his first-round potential in redraft leagues. For those still on the fence, it’s a reminder of his superstar upside, especially with minimal competition for carries in Las Vegas. His contact-seeking style raises slight injury concerns, but if he stays healthy, Jeanty’s workhorse role evokes Steven Jackson in his prime. He’s a safe bet for RB1 production—don’t hesitate to target him early.

2. Giants’ Quarterbacks Spark Offensive Optimism

The New York Giants have been labeled a fantasy football wasteland this offseason, with Malik Nabers as the lone bright spot. Week 2 suggests otherwise. Brian Daboll, once hailed as an offensive guru, may have found his groove with Russell Wilson and rising rookie Jaxson Dart. On Saturday against Houston, the duo combined for nearly 250 passing yards despite attempting just over half the team’s passes, with Dart going an impressive 14-for-16 and Wilson connecting on a signature deep ball. The Giants’ offense totaled 398 passing yards, with Jameis Winston adding 110 yards on six completions. This signals a rising tide for fantasy assets like Nabers, Darius Slayton, and possibly TE Theo Johnson. For drafts, Wilson is a late-round QB2/3, while Dart is a stash in deep leagues. Don’t sleep on the Giants’ passing game—it’s trending upward.

3. Lions Showcase Their Depth at WR

Detroit’s offense is a fantasy goldmine, but its wide receiver depth makes it tricky to predict. In Week 2 against Miami, rookies Isaac TeSlaa and Jackson Meeks continued their preseason tear, combining for 134 receiving yards and each scoring a touchdown for the second straight week. With Jameson Williams’ contract looming next offseason, one or both could step into significant roles as early as 2025, especially if injuries strike. While redraft leagues prioritize established names like Amon-Ra St. Brown, TeSlaa and Meeks are dynasty and keeper league targets to watch. Their consistent production suggests Detroit’s passing attack will remain potent, offering long-term fantasy value. Stash them in deeper formats and monitor their roles as the season nears.

4. RB Handcuffs with Breakout Potential

Week 2 highlighted two backup running backs with massive fantasy upside: Zach Charbonnet (Seahawks) and Emanuel Wilson (Packers). Charbonnet, already a proven talent, carved up Kansas City for 45 yards on 5 carries (9.0 YPC), including a 15-yard touchdown. His steady improvement makes him a starter-quality back on many NFL rosters, ready to shine if Kenneth Walker misses time. Similarly, Emanuel Wilson quelled health concerns with a 5-carry, 33-yard performance and a 32-yard reception against Indianapolis. Wilson’s explosive, decisive running complements Josh Jacobs perfectly and may come in handy for Green Bay with MarShawn Loyd (hamstring) battling another injury. For fantasy managers drafting Walker or Jacobs, securing Charbonnet or Wilson as handcuffs is a must. These aren’t just backups—they’re potential league-winners if given the chance.

5. New England’s Receiver Battle Heats Up

New England’s starting receiving corps remains a wide-open competition. With Stefon Diggs yet to debut, Week 2 against Minnesota offered another glimpse at potential targets for Drake Maye. Mack Hollins, an underrated veteran, posted 3 catches for 38 yards in limited action, making him a sneaky late-round pick in PPR leagues. Rookie Kyle Williams also hauled in 3 passes, signaling a possible early-season role. The standout, however, was undrafted rookie Efton Chism from Eastern Washington, who erupted for 6 catches, 71 yards, and a touchdown. Following in Cooper Kupp’s footsteps, Chism is pushing for a roster spot. New England’s offense looks improved, so monitor this battle closely—Hollins and Chism could offer deep-league value.

6. Dallas’ Running Back Room Raises Red Flags

The Dallas Cowboys’ devaluation of the running back position continues to baffle. After Rico Dowdle’s departure to Carolina, expectations were high for a marquee replacement. Instead, Dallas added Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders—both looked washed in 2024—alongside a rookie who’s battling an ankle issue. In Week 2, Sanders managed just 15 yards on 7 carries against Baltimore, a lackluster showing that underscores the group’s struggles. For fantasy managers, Dallas’ backfield is a situation to avoid. None of these backs project as reliable starters, and the lack of a clear lead runner makes this a risky investment in redraft leagues. Steer clear until a frontrunner emerges.

7. Chargers’ Rookie Receivers Challenge Quentin Johnston

Los Angeles’ re-signing of Keenan Allen didn’t directly threaten Quentin Johnston’s WR2 role, given their differing skill sets. However, Johnston’s underwhelming 2024 and the Chargers’ draft investments in Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith put him on notice. In Week 2, Johnston left early with a neck injury, giving the rookies a chance to shine against Denver. Harris and Lambert-Smith combined for 151 receiving yards, showcasing their potential as starters. Both are worth late-round fliers in deep redraft leagues (18-20 roster spots) and dynasty formats. If either emerges as Ladd McConkey’s primary complement, they could deliver significant value in Los Angeles’ developing offense.

8. Denver’s Offense Explodes for 562 Yards

Sean Payton’s influence is transforming Denver into an offensive hub. After jumping from 38 touchdowns in 2023 to 47 in 2024, the Broncos erupted for 562 total yards in Week 2 against the Cardinals. Fourteen players caught passes, including a 58-yard reception by new starting tight end Evan Engram. Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger combined for 30-of-39 passing and over 400 yards, though Bo Nix remains the unquestioned starter. This offensive surge signals fantasy upside for Denver’s skill players, who are being under-drafted. Engram, RJ Harvey, and even Courtland Sutton could outperform their ADPs. Shift your perspective—Denver’s offense is a goldmine in the making.

9. Trevor Lawrence Shows Promise Under Liam Coen

Trevor Lawrence, once a “can’t-miss” prospect, has settled into QB2 status for fantasy purposes, but Week 2 suggests a potential turnaround. Under new offensive coordinator Liam Coen—who elevated Baker Mayfield’s game in Tampa Bay—Lawrence completed 80% of his passes and led a touchdown drive against Carolina, looking sharp and decisive. With playmakers like Travis Hunter and Dyami Brown, Jacksonville’s offense is gaining traction. While Lawrence isn’t a QB1 yet, his Week 2 performance points to high-end QB2 upside, especially in superflex or two-QB leagues. If Coen’s system unlocks his potential, Lawrence could exceed expectations. Target him as a late-round QB2 with room to climb.

10. Caleb Williams Thrives in Chicago’s New Scheme

Chicago’s offense is coming alive under Ben Johnson’s innovative playcalling. In Week 2 against Buffalo, Caleb Williams led a 92-yard touchdown drive to open the game, showcasing his poise and precision. Newcomers Colston Loveland (two receptions) and Olamide Zaccheaus (who caught the touchdown) shined. Rookie WR Luther Burden III (3-49-0) got in on the act later in the first half as Chicago jumped out to a 28-0 lead by halftime. Johnson’s scheme, combined with upgraded personnel, elevates Chicago’s fantasy outlook. Williams is a high-upside QB2 with QB1 potential, while Zaccheaus and Loveland are late-round fliers in deeper leagues. Monitor Burden’s role, but for now, Chicago’s offense is a fantasy-friendly unit worth investing in.

Next: Preseason Week No.3. Until then…