Week 4 brought us tons of action. Yesterday we discussed how players like Tyreek Hill, Breece Hall, and Kyle Pitts failed to reach fantasy expectations last week. Today, we are looking at the other end of the spectrum: Players who exceeded expectations in Week 4. Let’s take a look at which performances were flukes and which players are here to stay.
Chuba Hubbard
Hubbard just completed his second week in a row with 100+ rushing yards, 4+ receptions, and a touchdown. This is very impressive for a running back who was getting drafted toward the end of all fantasy drafts. It is now obvious that this Andy Dalton-led Carolina offense can support a fantasy relevant RB1. Right now, it is clear that Hubbard holds that RB1 spot over Miles Sanders. He is a must start player for as long as this is the case.
However, in a couple weeks rookie Jonathan Brooks is scheduled to return from injury. There are a few possible scenarios for when Brooks returns: Hubbard may remain the RB1 as the Panthers work Brooks into the role that Sanders has now. They may split carries evenly, most likely making neither of them fantasy relevant. Or, Brooks takes over as the RB1 and Hubbard gets demoted.
We won’t know which of these scenarios are right until the time comes. For now, it’s best for Hubbard owners to hold onto him and start him until Brooks returns. When Brooks does finally take the field, it should only take a week or two to see who the true premier back in Carolina is.
Kenneth Walker
Kenneth Walker returned from injury with a statement performance. After multiple big games from Zach Charbonnet, there were questions if Walker was going to have to split the backfield when he returned. While Charbonnet did see some action in the passing game, notching 5 receptions for 39 yards, Walker was the clear lead back in this game. He rushed the ball 10 more times than Charbonnet, got all the goal line carries, and let it be known that the backfield is clearly his. Walker took full advantage of this, scoring three touchdowns and going for 116 scrimmage yards. He also executed one of the best plays I’ve ever seen from a running back. He was body slammed twice by a defender, but managed to roll over the top of him both times to avoid touching the ground. He stayed on his feet and managed to pick up about 15 more yards. He should have gotten extra fantasy points for that.
Going forward it is clear that this Seahawks offense is favorable for running backs. They move the ball downfield very well, and there will be plenty of red zone carries available in Seattle. The bottom line is that whoever the RB1 in Seattle is will be a Top 10 fantasy running big. Right now, Walker is that guy. He is a must start in all leagues going forward.
Baker Mayfield
Baker Mayfield has quickly become one of my favorite players in the league. He and Sam Darnold make me believe that there is still hope for Bryce Young, and Carolina may be the real problem after all. After Mayfield’s time in Carolina (followed by a brief stint with the Rams), Mayfield moved to Tampa Bay where he was tasked with succeeding Tom Brady. Many people questioned this move, claiming that Tampa’s skilled but aging receiving corps didn’t have time to develop a player like Baker who has failed in multiple coaching environments. However, the Bucs stuck with Baker and it has paid off for them. They have made the playoffs both seasons that Mayfield has started and now they are off to a 3-1 start. Players like Mike Evans and Chris Godwin are putting up similar numbers as when they played with Brady. In Week 4, Tampa hosted the Eagles and Baker threw for 347 yards and 2 passing touchdowns along with a rushing touchdown. He has been blowing away expectations in both real life and fantasy. He is truly one of the most fun to watch players in the league. Hop on the Baker train before it’s too late.
We now have four weeks of football in the books. Things change rapidly in the NFL, so be sure to stay up to date with the latest news. You don’t want to be starting Hubbard when Brooks takes over. Until next week, good look and stay active.
