Let's face it, dynasty is tough. Owners in leagues of all sizes and scoring systems are always looking for an edge over their competition. The goal of this article is to highlight a trio of linebackers, defensive linemen, and defensive backs that can either help you right away or represent good grab-and-stash adds. These players were found in at least one of my many leagues (some 12-team, some 14-team, some 16-team), representing a variety of scoring (standard, big play, etc.). I try to not be too reactive to big scoring occurring in the prior week, but sometimes those outbursts can't be ignored. Hopefully, these players represent good value for your dynasty teams moving forward!
Linebackers
Andrew van Ginkel (MIA): In big play leagues, van Ginkel is definitely worth a look. This Miami defense is young and takes on the attitude of their head coach Brian Flores. AvG is doing more with less, too, which is interesting to see. Jerome Baker is the steady tackler here, and Kyle Van Noy is always a source of points from various spots in the box score, but there may be room for a third linebacker scorer this defense, especially with Elandon Roberts' snaps dwindling.
Dre Greenlaw and Azeez Al-Shaair (SFO): Greenlaw is the logical add with the departure of Kwon Alexander but could already be rostered in deeper formats. If you want to roll the dice, Al-Shaair could be available, and while not a must-add right now, he'd be a guy that should be on your radar just in case Greenlaw doesn't pan out long-term. That said, Greenlaw's looked the part while filling in for Alexander. If available, Greenlaw is a must-add in all formats. And just a note, Kiko Alonso, who came over in the Alexander deal, is a longshot to ever even see the field for this Niners' D.
Barkevious Mingo (CHI): Another big-play league radar guy for those looking to add some muscle to their lineups to close out the 2020 season. Mingo is 30 and won't be a speculative add, but his numbers are on the rise and the Bears do have some good matchups in the second half of the season.
Defensive Linemen
Josh Sweat (DE - PHI): We've spotlighted Sweat here before but in case he's still available and you need a DL that can fill up the box score, this could be a solid pick-up for the remainder of the season. While still in a timeshare, Sweat gets sacks, pass breakups and shows he can also make some tackles (5 solos last week). The Eagles have a bye this week, but upcoming games against NYG and CLE and then DAL and WAS to close the season out could prove fruitful.
Tyquan Lewis (DT - IND): Lewis is listed as a DT at MyFantasyLeague, but has been getting snaps at DE along with the aging Justin Houston and "Just a Guy" Al-Quadin Muhammad. Check to see if Lewis continues to fill up the box score as he did last week against the Lions (3 solos, 2 helpers, 2 sacks, 1 pass breakup). If he does he's a solid add in start-DT leagues.
Romeo Okwara (DE - DET): Gotta put Okwara on this list again as he's reached "must-add" territory. He's on his way to a double-digit sack total for the season and the Lions have desperately needed a pass rush for several years. He's an add in all formats if still available.
Defensive Backs
Tre Boston (S - CAR): Need a cheap source of 12-14 points on a weekly basis from your DB2? Boston is no spring chicken but will get you consistent production even with Jeremy Chinn proving he's a stud in the making alongside him. Absolutely love several of the Panthers' upcoming matchups so if you're looking for a solid bye week filler, look to Boston.
Jamel Dean and Carlton Davis (CBs - TBB): Honestly, flip a coin; both Buc corners are putting up nice numbers. Dean is the more consistent tackler but Davis gets more action in the pass breakup sense. Dean is the guy if you want to grab-and-stash on your DTS.
Desmond King (CB - TEN): King will sit this week as he clears COVID protocols after being shipped to Tennessee, but after that, it'll be interesting to see how he's used in this defense. King has a superb pedigree but has underperformed a bit. Will the change of scenery bring out the best in this potential stud? Wait (or add) and see.