Week 1 brought clarity and insight regarding many ambiguous situations for IDP. I won't cover the more obvious performances (like Kamu Grugier-Hill's 18-tackle game) but focus instead on trends that impact player value the most. So what surprised me in Week 1?
EDGE Lorenzo Carter led the team in snaps on the defensive line for Atlanta
The Falcons signed Carter this offseason to help bolster a poor defensive line unit, and he made an immediate impact in Week 1. He was on the field for 51 of 61 snaps and earned a sack and two tackles. While he might not be in the mix to start in shallower IDP leagues, he should be in consideration in deeper ones.
EDGE Jerry Hughes is a starter for Houston
While Jonathan Greenard led the Texans defensive line in snaps, Hughes was right behind him with 55 of 92 snaps played. He had two sacks, three tackles, and a forced fumble in that time. While the Texans appear to have a rotation at edge, Hughes did start the game, and managers should keep an eye on him in deeper IDP leagues.
EDGE George Karlaftis played 78% of defensive snaps for Kansas City
The Chiefs drafted Karlaftis in the first round of this year’s draft. The rookie out of Purdue made his much-anticipated NFL debut on Sunday and played 51 of 65 snaps in the Chiefs’ blowout win over the Cardinals. That was the second-most out of any player on the defense behind only LJarius Sneed. While ‘Furious George’ failed to land a sack in Week 1, his six pressures should give managers optimism for future production.
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