"Streaming" quarterbacks, defenses and kickers has been a fantasy football strategy I've successfully used for years.
I've parlayed that success into a series of weekly recommendations for the top streaming options at those three positions, as well as tight end, which can be of assistance in a pinch.
The concept behind streaming is that you add someone for a given week based on the matchup, rather than putting the emphasis behind a player's long-term projection.
I’m only highlighting players who are available in at least 40% of Yahoo! leagues. Please refer to my player rankings based on your league settings to see who is the best available player in your league.
QB Sam Howell
vs. Bears (19% rostered)
I was shocked to see Howell inside my top-10 quarterbacks to start the week, but we have to consider the circumstances. Deshaun Watson, Justin Herbert and Geno Smith are all on bye this week, which opens up a few spots in the QB1/2 territory.
Howell has an easy matchup against the Bears this week. Chicago ranks 31st in DVOA entering Week 5.
Howell has some sneaky rushing upside, and I view him more as a high-floor streaming option this week. You could take a flier on C.J. Stroud if you're interested in someone who has a higher ceiling.
TE Zach Ertz
vs. Bengals (27% rostered)
After Week 3, it looked like Trey McBride was starting to cut into Ertz's role. But the veteran returned to a massive 87% routes run rate in Week 4 and cashed in on 10 targets for six catches and 53 receiving yards.
The tight end position is wide open after the top eight, and Ertz currently offers the underlying usage that indicates we can trust him as a top-10 option this week.
K Matt Gay
vs. Titans (15% rostered)
Gay has been excellent this season, converting all four of his attempts of 50 or more yards. He's seen a below-average number of attempts this season, but he should be due for some positive regression in that department.
The Colts are slight home favorites against the Titans, which makes this a good spot to take a flier on him.
Lions D/ST
vs. Panthers (15% rostered)
The Lions defense has been solid this season and ranks fifth in DVOA. Detroit has generated the sixth-highest pressure rate with Aidan Hutchinson looking like he's turning into a superstar.
The Panthers have allowed the eighth-most sacks in the NFL this season and have the lowest team total of Week 5. This is a great spot to stream Detroit's defense.
