DFS Dig Deeper 2024: Week 1 Salaries and Your Season Opening Lineup

Welcome back to Fan Girl Football! We’re kicking off the NFL season with a comprehensive look at Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) strategies for Week 1. In today’s blog post, we’re breaking down our recent podcast discussion with Quinten Adabie, an experienced DFS player who brings years of knowledge to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned DFS enthusiast or just starting out, this post will help you navigate the challenges of lineup building and give you the tools to maximize your chances of success.

Quarterbacks (QB)

Top Pick: Kyler Murray (Arizona Cardinals)

Kyler Murray is our top quarterback pick for Week 1. Facing off against the Buffalo Bills, Murray has the potential to put up big numbers. His dual-threat ability—both passing and rushing—makes him a high-upside option. Pairing him with his top receiving options is a smart way to build a stack that could pay off in a big way in tournaments.

Value Play: Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts)

If you’re looking to save some salary at the QB position, Anthony Richardson of the Colts is an intriguing option. Richardson is a dynamic athlete who can make plays with his arm and legs. He’s facing the Houston Texans, a matchup that could lead to plenty of scoring opportunities. Pairing Richardson with Michael Pittman Jr. or even tight end Kyle Granson, especially with Jelani Woods out, could provide great value.

Running Backs (RB)

Top Pick: Zach Moss (Cincinnati Bengals)

Zach Moss stands out as a top running back play this week. With the Bengals’ backfield situation up in the air, Moss is the go-to option against the New England Patriots. His ability to grind out yards and find the end zone makes him a reliable choice. At $5,800, Moss offers great value, especially if the Bengals lean on the run game to control the clock.

Value Play: Gus Edwards (Baltimore Ravens)

Gus Edwards is another value running back worth considering. Priced at $5,300, Edwards is poised to take on a significant role in the Ravens’ backfield, especially in a favorable matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. If the Ravens can establish a lead, expect Edwards to get plenty of carries as they try to run out the clock. His touchdown upside is an added bonus.

Wide Receivers (WR)

Top Pick: Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings)

If you’re looking to spend up at the wide receiver position, Justin Jefferson is your guy. The Vikings’ star receiver is a matchup nightmare for any defense, and this week is no exception. Jefferson is the clear focal point of the Vikings’ passing attack and should see plenty of targets. His ability to create big plays makes him a must-have in your lineup if you can afford him.

Value Play: Michael Wilson (Arizona Cardinals)

For those looking to save some salary, Michael Wilson of the Cardinals is a solid value play. With Kyler Murray under center, Wilson has the potential to be a key contributor, especially if defenses focus on Marvin Harrison Jr. Wilson has shown he can find the end zone, making him a sneaky play in tournaments.

Wild Card: Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders)

Terry McLaurin is another wide receiver to keep an eye on. Priced at $5,800, McLaurin is the clear number one option for the Commanders and should see a high volume of targets. In a game where Washington may need to pass to stay competitive, McLaurin could be in line for a big day.

Tight Ends (TE)

Top Pick: Trey McBride (Arizona Cardinals)

Trey McBride is our top tight end pick this week. With the Cardinals likely needing to pass to keep up with the Bills, McBride could be in for a busy day. He’s already shown a strong connection with Kyler Murray and should be one of the primary red zone targets. At $5,000, he’s a great option if you’re looking to pay up at the position.

Value Play: Greg Dulcich (Denver Broncos)

Greg Dulcich is a low-cost option at tight end that could pay off. Priced at $3,000, Dulcich is a bit of a wild card but has flashed potential in the past. With a new quarterback under center and coming off an injury-plagued season, Dulcich could be a sneaky play if you’re looking to save salary and differentiate your lineup in tournaments.

Punt Play: Mike Gesicki (Cincinnati Bengals)

If you’re looking to go bargain shopping at tight end, Mike Gesicki is a name to consider. Priced at just $3,000, Gesicki could see increased targets, especially if Jamar Chase remains on the holdout list. While he may not have a high ceiling, Gesicki offers enough potential to pay off his low price tag, making him a viable punt play.

Defense/Special Teams (DST)

Top Pick: Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns defense is in a prime spot this week, especially if CeeDee Lamb is out for the Cowboys. The Browns have a strong defensive line and a secondary that can force turnovers. Priced at $3,100, they’re a great option if you’re looking to spend up a bit at the DST position.

Value Play: Los Angeles Chargers

If you’re looking to save some salary, the Los Angeles Chargers defense is a solid choice. Priced at $2,900, the Chargers have a favorable matchup against a backup or fringe starter at quarterback. With a healthy defense under John Harbaugh, the Chargers could surprise with a strong performance, including the potential for defensive touchdowns.

Building a Tournament Lineup

To illustrate the strategies discussed, here’s a sample tournament lineup:

• QB: Kyler Murray (Arizona Cardinals)
• RB: Gus Edwards (Baltimore Ravens)
• RB: Zach Moss (Cincinnati Bengals)
• WR: Michael Wilson (Arizona Cardinals)
• WR: Kenan Coleman (Buffalo Bills)
• WR: Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings)
• TE: Trey McBride (Arizona Cardinals)
• FLEX: Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders)
• DST: Los Angeles Chargers

This lineup focuses on leveraging the Arizona-Buffalo game with a Kyler Murray stack, complemented by strong value plays at running back and a high-upside flex option in Terry McLaurin. The Chargers defense rounds out the lineup, offering value and the potential for a big day.

Final Thoughts

When building your DFS lineup, always consider your risk tolerance and the type of contests you’re entering. For those looking for a higher chance of winning consistently, 50/50 or head-to-head matchups might be the way to go. However, if you’re aiming for that big payout, tournament play is where you can lean into the chaos and take some calculated risks.

Remember, DFS is about having fun. Enjoy the process, experiment with different strategies, and may the odds be ever in your favor.

Thanks for reading this Week 1 DFS breakdown. If you found this post helpful, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more fantasy football insights and updates. Good luck with your lineups, and here’s to a successful fantasy season!