Week 1 Fantasy Football Rankings

Peppers & Picks ranks Josh Allen (BUF QB), our QB1 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 22.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 22.3 points, 31% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Lamar Jackson (BAL QB), our QB2 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.5 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Jackson clears the QB bar by about 15%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 95% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Drake Maye (NE QB), our QB3 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at QB3 because the projection lands about 14% clear of what a typical QB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 78% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jalen Hurts (PHI QB), our QB4 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 93% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Hurts clears the QB bar by about 14%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jayden Daniels (WSH QB), our QB5 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at QB5 because the projection lands about 14% clear of what a typical QB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 78% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Joe Burrow (CIN QB), our QB6 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 18.5 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 88% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 18.5 projected points is roughly 9% more than the QB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at QB6. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jaxson Dart (NYG QB), our QB7 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 18.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 65% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at QB7 because the projection lands about 7% clear of what a typical QB banks in a week. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bo Nix (DEN QB), our QB8 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 18.0 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 33% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 18 projected points is roughly 6% more than the QB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at QB8. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Matthew Stafford (LAR QB), our QB9 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.8 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 17.8 projected points is roughly 5% more than the QB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at QB9. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 54% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Patrick Mahomes (KC QB), our QB10 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.7 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 18% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 17.7 points, 4% above what the position pays out on average. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Brock Purdy (SF QB), our QB11 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.7 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 21% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 17.7 projected points is roughly 4% more than the QB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at QB11. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Trevor Lawrence (JAX QB), our QB12 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.6 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 46% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at QB12 because the projection lands about 4% clear of what a typical QB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Dak Prescott (DAL QB), our QB13 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.4 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 17.4 points, 2% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 70% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Justin Herbert (LAC QB), our QB14 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 17.2 projected points is roughly 1% more than the QB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at QB14. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 67% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Kyler Murray (MIN QB), our QB15 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 13% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 17.2 projected points is roughly 1% more than the QB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at QB15. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Caleb Williams (CHI QB), our QB16 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 17.1 projected points is roughly 1% more than the QB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at QB16. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 55% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jared Goff (DET QB), our QB17 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 15% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Nothing in the projection defends him — 4% below positional par is a bench line for me. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Daniel Jones (IND QB), our QB18 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 35% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The projection sits about 5% under what a startable QB returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Baker Mayfield (TB QB), our QB19 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He grades 5% below the average weekly QB number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 12% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tyler Shough (NO QB), our QB20 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 47% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. He grades 5% below the average weekly QB number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jordan Love (GB QB), our QB21 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.9 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Nothing in the projection defends him — 6% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 42% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks C.J. Stroud (HOU QB), our QB22 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.0 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 15 points is roughly 12% short of the QB baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 26% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Malik Willis (MIA QB), our QB23 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.6 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 21% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The projection sits about 14% under what a startable QB returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bryce Young (CAR QB), our QB24 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.5 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 11% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. He grades 15% below the average weekly QB number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Geno Smith (NYJ QB), our QB25 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.1 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. Only 4% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 14.1 points is roughly 17% short of the QB baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. The Pepper Meter cools him to Mild, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jacoby Brissett (ARI QB), our QB26 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.9 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He grades 18% below the average weekly QB number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 5% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Cam Ward (TEN QB), our QB27 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.4 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. The projection sits about 21% under what a startable QB returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 9% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Aaron Rodgers (PIT QB), our QB28 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.4 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 7% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Nothing in the projection defends him — 21% below positional par is a bench line for me. Sally keeps him at Mild until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Fernando Mendoza (LV QB), our QB29 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.4 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. 11.4 points is roughly 33% short of the QB baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. The Pepper Meter cools him to Mild, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Shedeur Sanders (CLE QB), our QB30 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.5 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. Nothing in the projection defends him — 50% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jahmyr Gibbs (DET RB), our RB1 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 21.9 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Gibbs clears the RB bar by about 99%, which is why he sits this high on my board. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bijan Robinson (ATL RB), our RB2 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 20.6 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 20.6 points, 87% above what the position pays out on average. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Christian McCaffrey (SF RB), our RB3 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.2 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 19.2 points, 75% above what the position pays out on average. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jonathan Taylor (IND RB), our RB4 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 18.6 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Taylor clears the RB bar by about 69%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks De'Von Achane (MIA RB), our RB5 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.2 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 17.2 points, 56% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks James Cook III (BUF RB), our RB6 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.5 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 98% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.5 projected points is roughly 50% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB6. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ashton Jeanty (LV RB), our RB7 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.4 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.4 projected points is roughly 49% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB7. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Derrick Henry (BAL RB), our RB8 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.3 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at RB8 because the projection lands about 48% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jeremiyah Love (ARI RB), our RB9 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.3 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 82% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.3 projected points is roughly 48% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB9. The questionable designation on the timestamp below is the one variable that could blow this up — confirm it Sunday morning. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Breece Hall (NYJ RB), our RB10 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.2 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. I have him at RB10 because the projection lands about 47% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 91% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Saquon Barkley (PHI RB), our RB11 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Barkley clears the RB bar by about 46%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Kenneth Walker III (KC RB), our RB12 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 94% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.1 projected points is roughly 46% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB12. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chase Brown (CIN RB), our RB13 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.0 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 16 projected points is roughly 45% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB13. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Omarion Hampton (LAC RB), our RB14 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.4 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Hampton clears the RB bar by about 40%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 98% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Javonte Williams (DAL RB), our RB15 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Williams clears the RB bar by about 39%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 92% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Travis Etienne Jr. (NO RB), our RB16 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 88% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 14.3 points, 30% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Rhamondre Stevenson (NE RB), our RB17 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.1 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 53% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at RB17 because the projection lands about 28% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Kyren Williams (LAR RB), our RB18 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.8 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 13.8 points, 25% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 88% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Cam Skattebo (NYG RB), our RB19 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 13.4 points, 22% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 84% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Quinshon Judkins (CLE RB), our RB20 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 78% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at RB20 because the projection lands about 21% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks D'Andre Swift (CHI RB), our RB21 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at RB21 because the projection lands about 12% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 68% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bucky Irving (TB RB), our RB22 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 70% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at RB22 because the projection lands about 11% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bhayshul Tuten (JAX RB), our RB23 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 56% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at RB23 because the projection lands about 10% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks David Montgomery (HOU RB), our RB24 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.8 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 63% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at RB24 because the projection lands about 7% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jaylen Warren (PIT RB), our RB25 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.4 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 39% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 11.4 points, 4% above what the position pays out on average. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jadarian Price (SEA RB), our RB26 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. I have him at RB26 because the projection lands about 1% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 62% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Rico Dowdle (PIT RB), our RB27 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 31% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 11.1 projected points is roughly 1% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB27. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tony Pollard (TEN RB), our RB28 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.9 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 10.9 points is roughly 1% short of the RB baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 30% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chuba Hubbard (CAR RB), our RB29 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.6 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 15% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The projection sits about 4% under what a startable RB returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Kenny Gainwell (TB RB), our RB30 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.5 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Nothing in the projection defends him — 5% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 16% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Puka Nacua (LAR WR), our WR1 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 20.8 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 20.8 points, 108% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a Nuclear reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ja'Marr Chase (CIN WR), our WR2 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.8 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Chase clears the WR bar by about 98%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at Nuclear this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Amon-Ra St. Brown (DET WR), our WR3 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.1 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 19.1 points, 91% above what the position pays out on average. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jaxon Smith-Njigba (SEA WR), our WR4 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.1 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 19.1 projected points is roughly 91% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR4. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a Nuclear reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks CeeDee Lamb (DAL WR), our WR5 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.3 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 17.3 projected points is roughly 73% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR5. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at Nuclear this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Justin Jefferson (MIN WR), our WR6 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.3 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Jefferson clears the WR bar by about 73%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at Nuclear this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Drake London (ATL WR), our WR7 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.7 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 15.7 projected points is roughly 57% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR7. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Rashee Rice (KC WR), our WR8 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.3 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 15.3 projected points is roughly 53% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR8. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 93% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Garrett Wilson (NYJ WR), our WR9 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.8 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 90% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at WR9 because the projection lands about 48% clear of what a typical WR banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chris Olave (NO WR), our WR10 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.7 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 14.7 points, 47% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 93% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Nico Collins (HOU WR), our WR11 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.6 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Collins clears the WR bar by about 46%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Malik Nabers (NYG WR), our WR12 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.4 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 81% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Fair warning: he carries a questionable tag as of the timestamp below, so re-check before kickoff. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks George Pickens (DAL WR), our WR13 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 14.1 points, 41% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 95% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks DeVonta Smith (PHI WR), our WR14 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 92% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 14.1 points, 41% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Zay Flowers (BAL WR), our WR15 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 84% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 14.1 projected points is roughly 41% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR15. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tetairoa McMillan (CAR WR), our WR16 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.9 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 88% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 13.9 points, 39% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Davante Adams (LAR WR), our WR17 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.7 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 85% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at WR17 because the projection lands about 37% clear of what a typical WR banks in a week. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Emeka Egbuka (TB WR), our WR18 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.5 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Egbuka clears the WR bar by about 35%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 83% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ladd McConkey (LAC WR), our WR19 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 13.0 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at WR19 because the projection lands about 30% clear of what a typical WR banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 82% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tee Higgins (CIN WR), our WR20 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.9 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Higgins clears the WR bar by about 29%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 74% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Terry McLaurin (WSH WR), our WR21 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.8 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 12.8 points, 28% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 62% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jaylen Waddle (DEN WR), our WR22 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 69% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 12.6 points, 26% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Rome Odunze (CHI WR), our WR23 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.5 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at WR23 because the projection lands about 25% clear of what a typical WR banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. He's listed questionable as of the update below; my rank assumes he plays, and designations move fast. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks DJ Moore (BUF WR), our WR24 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 56% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 12.4 projected points is roughly 24% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR24. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jameson Williams (DET WR), our WR25 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 57% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 12.3 projected points is roughly 23% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR25. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Luther Burden III (CHI WR), our WR26 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.1 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at WR26 because the projection lands about 21% clear of what a typical WR banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 39% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Courtland Sutton (DEN WR), our WR27 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.0 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 35% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sutton clears the WR bar by about 20%, which is why he sits this high on my board. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Carnell Tate (TEN WR), our WR28 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.9 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 32% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 11.9 points, 19% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Michael Pittman Jr. (PIT WR), our WR29 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 26% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 11.6 projected points is roughly 16% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR29. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks DK Metcalf (PIT WR), our WR30 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.5 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Metcalf clears the WR bar by about 15%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 33% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Trey McBride (ARI TE), our TE1 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.3 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 14.3 projected points is roughly 104% more than the TE baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at TE1. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a Nuclear reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tyler Warren (IND TE), our TE2 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.4 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 95% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Warren clears the TE bar by about 77%, which is why he sits this high on my board. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Colston Loveland (CHI TE), our TE3 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 12.1 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 98% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at TE3 because the projection lands about 73% clear of what a typical TE banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at Nuclear this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Sam LaPorta (DET TE), our TE4 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 11.1 points, 59% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 82% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Harold Fannin Jr. (CLE TE), our TE5 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 11.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 86% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Jr. clears the TE bar by about 59%, which is why he sits this high on my board. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks George Kittle (SF TE), our TE6 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.9 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 48% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 10.9 projected points is roughly 56% more than the TE baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at TE6. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Kyle Pitts Sr. (ATL TE), our TE7 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.8 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 84% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sr. clears the TE bar by about 54%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Travis Kelce (KC TE), our TE8 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.5 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 56% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 10.5 projected points is roughly 50% more than the TE baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at TE8. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Dallas Goedert (PHI TE), our TE9 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.4 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 62% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at TE9 because the projection lands about 49% clear of what a typical TE banks in a week. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tucker Kraft (GB TE), our TE10 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. I have him at TE10 because the projection lands about 44% clear of what a typical TE banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 60% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Mark Andrews (BAL TE), our TE11 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.0 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 10 points, 43% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 34% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jake Ferguson (DAL TE), our TE12 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.8 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 42% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 9.8 points, 40% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks T.J. Hockenson (MIN TE), our TE13 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 9.3 points, 33% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 14% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Isaiah Likely (NYG TE), our TE14 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.2 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 34% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 9.2 points, 31% above what the position pays out on average. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Dalton Kincaid (BUF TE), our TE15 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.2 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 9.2 projected points is roughly 31% more than the TE baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at TE15. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 20% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Hunter Henry (NE TE), our TE16 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.1 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 9.1 points, 30% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 55% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Juwan Johnson (NO TE), our TE17 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Only 52% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Johnson clears the TE bar by about 23%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Kenyon Sadiq (NYJ TE), our TE18 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 35% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The math is unsexy and convincing: 8.6 points, 23% above what the position pays out on average. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Brenton Strange (JAX TE), our TE19 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 23% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The math is unsexy and convincing: 8.4 points, 20% above what the position pays out on average. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Pat Freiermuth (PIT TE), our TE20 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.0 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 8 points, 14% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 15% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Dalton Schultz (HOU TE), our TE21 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.8 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 20% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 7.8 projected points is roughly 11% more than the TE baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at TE21. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Gunnar Helm (TEN TE), our TE22 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.5 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 6% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Helm clears the TE bar by about 7%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chig Okonkwo (WSH TE), our TE23 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. I have him at TE23 because the projection lands about 1% clear of what a typical TE banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 8% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Greg Dulcich (MIA TE), our TE24 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.0 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 3% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. I have him at TE24 because the projection lands about 0% clear of what a typical TE banks in a week. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Colby Parkinson (LAR TE), our TE25 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.8 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 1% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The projection sits about 3% under what a startable TE returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks AJ Barner (SEA TE), our TE26 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.7 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 7% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The projection sits about 4% under what a startable TE returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Darren Waller (CAR TE), our TE27 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.7 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Nothing in the projection defends him — 4% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 4% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Evan Engram (DEN TE), our TE28 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 3% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 6.3 points is roughly 10% short of the TE baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Terrance Ferguson (LAR TE), our TE29 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. The projection sits about 11% under what a startable TE returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 28% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks David Njoku (LAC TE), our TE30 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 5% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 6.1 points is roughly 13% short of the TE baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jahmyr Gibbs (DET RB), our RB1 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 21.9 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Gibbs clears the RB bar by about 99%, which is why he sits this high on my board. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Puka Nacua (LAR WR), our WR2 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 20.8 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 20.8 points, 108% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a Nuclear reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bijan Robinson (ATL RB), our RB3 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 20.6 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 20.6 points, 87% above what the position pays out on average. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ja'Marr Chase (CIN WR), our WR4 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.8 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Chase clears the WR bar by about 98%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at Nuclear this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Christian McCaffrey (SF RB), our RB5 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.2 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 19.2 points, 75% above what the position pays out on average. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Amon-Ra St. Brown (DET WR), our WR6 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.1 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 19.1 points, 91% above what the position pays out on average. Sally has him at Nuclear on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jaxon Smith-Njigba (SEA WR), our WR7 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 19.1 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 19.1 projected points is roughly 91% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR7. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a Nuclear reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jonathan Taylor (IND RB), our RB8 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 18.6 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Taylor clears the RB bar by about 69%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks CeeDee Lamb (DAL WR), our WR9 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.3 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 17.3 projected points is roughly 73% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR9. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at Nuclear this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Justin Jefferson (MIN WR), our WR10 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.3 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Jefferson clears the WR bar by about 73%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at Nuclear this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks De'Von Achane (MIA RB), our RB11 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 17.2 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 17.2 points, 56% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks James Cook III (BUF RB), our RB12 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.5 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 98% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.5 projected points is roughly 50% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB12. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ashton Jeanty (LV RB), our RB13 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.4 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.4 projected points is roughly 49% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB13. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Derrick Henry (BAL RB), our RB14 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.3 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at RB14 because the projection lands about 48% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jeremiyah Love (ARI RB), our RB15 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.3 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 82% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.3 projected points is roughly 48% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB15. The questionable designation on the timestamp below is the one variable that could blow this up — confirm it Sunday morning. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Breece Hall (NYJ RB), our RB16 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.2 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. I have him at RB16 because the projection lands about 47% clear of what a typical RB banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 91% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Saquon Barkley (PHI RB), our RB17 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Barkley clears the RB bar by about 46%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Kenneth Walker III (KC RB), our RB18 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 94% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 16.1 projected points is roughly 46% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB18. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chase Brown (CIN RB), our RB19 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 16.0 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 16 projected points is roughly 45% more than the RB baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at RB19. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Drake London (ATL WR), our WR20 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.7 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 15.7 projected points is roughly 57% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR20. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Omarion Hampton (LAC RB), our RB21 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.4 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Hampton clears the RB bar by about 40%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 98% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Rashee Rice (KC WR), our WR22 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.3 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 15.3 projected points is roughly 53% more than the WR baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at WR22. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 93% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Javonte Williams (DAL RB), our RB23 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 15.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Williams clears the RB bar by about 39%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 92% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Garrett Wilson (NYJ WR), our WR24 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.8 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. 90% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at WR24 because the projection lands about 48% clear of what a typical WR banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. That combination is why the Pepper Meter has him at On Fire this week.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chris Olave (NO WR), our WR25 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.7 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 14.7 points, 47% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 93% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Nico Collins (HOU WR), our WR26 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.6 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. Collins clears the WR bar by about 46%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 97% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Malik Nabers (NYG WR), our WR27 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.4 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 81% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Fair warning: he carries a questionable tag as of the timestamp below, so re-check before kickoff. Sally has him at On Fire on the Pepper Meter, and she'll wear the result either way.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Trey McBride (ARI TE), our TE28 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.3 projected points with a nuclear Pepper Meter rating. 14.3 projected points is roughly 104% more than the TE baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at TE28. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 100% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a Nuclear reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Travis Etienne Jr. (NO RB), our RB29 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 88% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 14.3 points, 30% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks George Pickens (DAL WR), our WR30 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 14.1 projected points with a on fire Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 14.1 points, 41% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 95% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Add it up and you get a On Fire reading on the Pepper Meter — Sally isn't hedging on this one.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Brandon Aubrey (DAL K), our K1 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 10.1 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 99% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Aubrey clears the K bar by about 35%, which is why he sits this high on my board. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Cameron Dicker (LAC K), our K2 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.5 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 9.5 projected points is roughly 27% more than the K baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at K2. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 96% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Harrison Mevis (LAR K), our K3 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at K3 because the projection lands about 25% clear of what a typical K banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 89% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jason Myers (SEA K), our K4 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 94% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 9.3 points, 24% above what the position pays out on average. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ka'imi Fairbairn (HOU K), our K5 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.3 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 91% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Fairbairn clears the K bar by about 24%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Eddy Pineiro (SF K), our K6 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 9.1 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 79% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 9.1 points, 21% above what the position pays out on average. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Harrison Butker (KC K), our K7 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.8 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. The math is unsexy and convincing: 8.8 points, 17% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 73% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Cam Little (JAX K), our K8 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 83% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 8.6 points, 15% above what the position pays out on average. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jake Bates (DET K), our K9 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. 66% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Bates clears the K bar by about 15%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tyler Loop (BAL K), our K10 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Only 52% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. I have him at K10 because the projection lands about 15% clear of what a typical K banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Cairo Santos (CHI K), our K11 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.5 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Only 34% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. I have him at K11 because the projection lands about 13% clear of what a typical K banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Trey Smack (GB K), our K12 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.5 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Only 14% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 8.5 projected points is roughly 13% more than the K baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at K12. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chris Boswell (PIT K), our K13 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. Only 39% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 8.4 projected points is roughly 12% more than the K baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at K13. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Hot on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Will Reichard (MIN K), our K14 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.4 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 33% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. I have him at K14 because the projection lands about 12% clear of what a typical K banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chase McLaughlin (TB K), our K15 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.4 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 8.4 projected points is roughly 12% more than the K baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at K15. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 16% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Evan McPherson (CIN K), our K16 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 22% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. McPherson clears the K bar by about 11%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Nick Folk (ATL K), our K17 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Folk clears the K bar by about 11%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 5% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Spencer Shrader (IND K), our K18 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 4% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. I have him at K18 because the projection lands about 9% clear of what a typical K banks in a week. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Tyler Bass (BUF K), our K19 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 5% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 8.1 projected points is roughly 8% more than the K baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at K19. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Daniel Carlson (NO K), our K20 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 2% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 8.1 projected points is roughly 8% more than the K baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at K20. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jake Elliott (PHI K), our K21 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.0 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 9% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The math is unsexy and convincing: 8 points, 7% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Wil Lutz (DEN K), our K22 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 8.0 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 6% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The math is unsexy and convincing: 8 points, 7% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Drew Stevens (WSH K), our K23 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.9 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 1% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The math is unsexy and convincing: 7.9 points, 5% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Dominic Zvada (NYG K), our K24 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.8 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. I have him at K24 because the projection lands about 4% clear of what a typical K banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 2% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Andy Borregales (NE K), our K25 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.6 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 3% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The math is unsexy and convincing: 7.6 points, 1% above what the position pays out on average. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Riley Patterson (MIA K), our K26 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.5 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. I have him at K26 because the projection lands about 0% clear of what a typical K banks in a week. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Matt Gay (LV K), our K27 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.4 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 2% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. 7.4 points is roughly 1% short of the K baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Joey Slye (TEN K), our K28 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 1% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. He grades 3% below the average weekly K number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ryan Fitzgerald (CAR K), our K29 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. Only 1% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The projection sits about 3% under what a startable K returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Andre Szmyt (CLE K), our K30 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.2 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 7.2 points is roughly 4% short of the K baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Broncos D/ST (DEN DST), our DST1 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.7 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 85% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. The math is unsexy and convincing: 7.7 points, 18% above what the position pays out on average. Hot heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Texans D/ST (HOU DST), our DST2 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.6 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. D/ST clears the DST bar by about 17%, which is why he sits this high on my board. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 82% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Steelers D/ST (PIT DST), our DST3 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.4 projected points with a hot Pepper Meter rating. I have him at DST3 because the projection lands about 14% clear of what a typical DST banks in a week. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 92% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Hot here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Rams D/ST (LAR DST), our DST4 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 89% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. I have him at DST4 because the projection lands about 12% clear of what a typical DST banks in a week. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Ravens D/ST (BAL DST), our DST5 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 81% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. 7.1 projected points is roughly 9% more than the DST baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at DST5. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Spicy on the Pepper Meter reflects a steady weekly floor rather than a boom week — that's still a start.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Seahawks D/ST (SEA DST), our DST6 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 7.0 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. 7 projected points is roughly 8% more than the DST baseline, and that gap is the entire argument for the spot at DST6. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 91% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Sally keeps the Pepper Meter at Spicy here because the ceiling is capped, not the role.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Eagles D/ST (PHI DST), our DST7 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. He's still in 79% of lineups at 88% rostered, which is exactly the trap I'm trying to talk you out of. 6.3 points is roughly 3% short of the DST baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Lions D/ST (DET DST), our DST8 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.3 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. He's still in 65% of lineups at 73% rostered, which is exactly the trap I'm trying to talk you out of. 6.3 points is roughly 3% short of the DST baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. Spicy heat, high rank: reliable points without the fireworks.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Browns D/ST (CLE DST), our DST9 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.1 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's still in 46% of lineups at 54% rostered, which is exactly the trap I'm trying to talk you out of. He grades 6% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Patriots D/ST (NE DST), our DST10 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 6.0 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He's still in 52% of lineups at 66% rostered, which is exactly the trap I'm trying to talk you out of. The projection sits about 8% under what a startable DST returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. The Pepper Meter cools him to Spicy, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chiefs D/ST (KC DST), our DST11 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 5.9 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. He grades 9% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 36% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Spicy on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Chargers D/ST (LAC DST), our DST12 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 5.5 projected points with a spicy Pepper Meter rating. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. He's still in 55% of lineups at 60% rostered, which is exactly the trap I'm trying to talk you out of. 5.5 points is roughly 15% short of the DST baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. Sally keeps him at Spicy until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Buccaneers D/ST (TB DST), our DST13 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 5.4 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. The projection sits about 17% under what a startable DST returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 13% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Packers D/ST (GB DST), our DST14 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 5.3 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 16% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. The projection sits about 18% under what a startable DST returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. Sally keeps him at Mild until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Vikings D/ST (MIN DST), our DST15 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 5.3 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 13% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. He grades 18% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. Sally keeps him at Mild until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Saints D/ST (NO DST), our DST16 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 5.2 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He grades 20% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 3% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jets D/ST (NYJ DST), our DST17 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.8 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He grades 26% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 5% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks 49ers D/ST (SF DST), our DST18 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.7 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. Only 7% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. He grades 28% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. Sally keeps him at Mild until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Giants D/ST (NYG DST), our DST19 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.7 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. 4.7 points is roughly 28% short of the DST baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Only 2% of leagues roster him, so this is cheap production before the price goes up. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Jaguars D/ST (JAX DST), our DST20 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.5 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. The projection sits about 31% under what a startable DST returns, so I can't pretend the price tag matches the output. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. He's still in 64% of lineups at 67% rostered, which is exactly the trap I'm trying to talk you out of. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Cowboys D/ST (DAL DST), our DST21 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.5 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. 4.5 points is roughly 31% short of the DST baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 8% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Colts D/ST (IND DST), our DST22 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.3 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. Nothing in the projection defends him — 34% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 1% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bears D/ST (CHI DST), our DST23 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.2 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. 4.2 points is roughly 35% short of the DST baseline, and I rank on output, not name recognition. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 7% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Panthers D/ST (CAR DST), our DST24 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.2 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. Nothing in the projection defends him — 35% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bengals D/ST (CIN DST), our DST25 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.1 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. 1% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Nothing in the projection defends him — 37% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. The Pepper Meter cools him to Mild, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Titans D/ST (TEN DST), our DST26 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 4.0 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. 10% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Nothing in the projection defends him — 38% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. The Pepper Meter cools him to Mild, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Commanders D/ST (WSH DST), our DST27 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 3.6 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. 1% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. He grades 45% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. The Pepper Meter cools him to Mild, and that reading is doing its job.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Bills D/ST (BUF DST), our DST28 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 3.5 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He grades 46% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 3% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Falcons D/ST (ATL DST), our DST29 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 3.4 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. Nothing in the projection defends him — 48% below positional par is a bench line for me. No game on the schedule this week, so the only decision is who replaces him. 1% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. Mild on the Pepper Meter is generous, honestly.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.

Peppers & Picks ranks Raiders D/ST (LV DST), our DST30 this week for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season against bye, projecting 3.1 projected points with a mild Pepper Meter rating. He's without an opponent this week, which caps this at a roster-hold conversation. 2% of managers already start him, and the depth-chart role behind that number looks stable. He grades 52% below the average weekly DST number, which is a floor problem more than a ceiling one. Sally keeps him at Mild until the usage says otherwise.

Sally's original analysis from our own projection, usage and status data. Stats and injury designations as of Sep 12, 7:18 PM ET — statuses change fast, verify before kickoff.