As we dive into Week 2 of the fantasy football season, it's crucial to explore sleepers who can enhance your lineup, especially if you have a low waiver-wire priority or want to conserve your free-agent budget. This week, we highlight eight players, including two promising rookie picks who have rapidly secured notable roles—one following an early-season trade. Additionally, a veteran quarterback is garnering more respect in the fantasy realm, and his status could shift after Monday night. Discover our top sleeper options, all available in at least 50 percent of leagues according to FantasyPros' roster consensus percentages.
The Atlanta Falcons' second-year quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., showcased his potential with a strong performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1, throwing for 298 yards and a touchdown while also contributing on the ground with 21 rushing yards and another score. This week, he faces a Minnesota Vikings defense that has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in the secondary. With only one reliable cornerback, Byron Murphy Jr., and a questionable safety in Harrison Smith, Penix could exploit these weaknesses, especially if he has key receivers like Drake London and Darnell Mooney available for Sunday night.
Geno Smith is often overlooked in the fantasy community, yet he finished as QB5 in scoring last season and QB13 in the prior one. His Week 1 performance against the New England Patriots, where he amassed 362 passing yards, further solidifies his viability. This Monday night, he goes against a Los Angeles Chargers defense that allowed Patrick Mahomes to throw for over 250 yards. If the Raiders' offensive firepower remains intact, Smith could deliver another impressive stat line, making him a must-add in over 80% of leagues.
After the Jacksonville Jaguars' trade of running back Tank Bigsby, rookie Bhayshul Tuten becomes a prime waiver wire target. While he had limited action with three carries for 11 yards last week, Tuten's role is expected to expand significantly. With Travis Etienne Jr. now a must-start player following a 143-yard game, Tuten's potential as a dynamic pass-catcher—he caught 50 passes for 320 yards at Virginia Tech—could make him a valuable contributor against a Cincinnati Bengals team that allows significant fantasy points to running backs.
For fantasy managers looking to fill a gap, Kenneth Gainwell is a solid option to consider. In the Pittsburgh Steelers' season opener, he recorded 10 touches, proving to be a reliable option in the backfield. With the Steelers facing a Seattle Seahawks team that surrendered the second-most fantasy points to running backs last week, Gainwell's ability to contribute both on the ground and as a pass-catcher makes him a valuable flex play.
Quentin Johnston is a name to watch as he gears up for a potential breakout season. In Week 1, he caught five passes for 79 yards and two touchdowns against the Kansas City Chiefs. Facing the Las Vegas Raiders, who struggled against wide receivers last week, Johnston's big-play ability could lead to a significant performance. With the Chargers' offensive scheme favoring the pass, he could deliver impressive numbers and is worth considering for your lineup.
With the Kansas City Chiefs adapting their passing game after losing Xavier Worthy, Tyquan Thornton emerged as a viable deep threat. Despite some missed opportunities, his 38-yard catch from Patrick Mahomes illustrates his explosive potential. If Worthy remains sidelined, Thornton could take advantage of favorable matchups against the Philadelphia Eagles' secondary, making him an intriguing addition for those seeking high-risk, high-reward options.
The Pittsburgh Steelers offer an interesting scenario with their tight ends, particularly Jonnu Smith, who is more athletic than his counterpart, Pat Freiermuth. In a favorable matchup against the Seattle Seahawks—who allowed the most fantasy points to tight ends last week—Smith's scoring potential makes him a top choice for fantasy managers. With more than 50 percent availability in leagues, he could be a game-changer for your roster.
Finally, consider Harold Fannin Jr. of the Cleveland Browns as a potential sleeper. He may not have made waves yet, but with the Ravens' defense allowing tight ends to rack up significant fantasy points, Fannin could be a strategic addition. Whether you keep him on your bench or play him against Baltimore, his role in the Browns' aerial attack could yield positive results.
As you approach your fantasy lineup for Week 2, consider these sleeper options to enhance your chances of success. Always monitor injury reports and player performance leading up to game day for optimal results.
