Fantasy Football Expert Justin Edwards looks at the current Fantasy Football Defense rankings and projections for Week 9.
“After eight full weeks of NFL action, there are a number of surprises in the football landscape, and the fantasy football Defense rankings are reflecting that.”
2024 Fantasy Football Defense Rankings
*As always, the projections and rankings are courtesy of 4for4’s Fantasy Football Defense rankings!
# | Player | FF Pts |
1 | Titans | 7.2 |
2 | Vikings | 7.1 |
3 | Saints | 6.8 |
4 | Chargers | 6.6 |
5 | Bills | 6.5 |
6 | Chiefs | 6.5 |
7 | Eagles | 6.5 |
8 | Ravens | 6.4 |
9 | Bengals | 6.4 |
10 | Commanders | 6.3 |
11 | Jets | 6 |
12 | Bears | 6 |
13 | Cardinals | 5.9 |
14 | Rams | 5.9 |
15 | Falcons | 5.9 |
16 | Browns | 5.7 |
17 | Lions | 5.7 |
18 | Packers | 5.7 |
19 | Giants | 5.6 |
20 | Patriots | 5.6 |
Fantasy Football D/ST Rankings, Who Should I Add Off Waiver Wires:
The Washington Commanders were the highest recommended D/ST waiver wire pickup this week.
Analysis
In a surprising turnaround, the Commanders’ defense has transformed from one of the league’s most vulnerable units into a far more formidable group within just a couple of months.
This sudden improvement has made them a much less appealing target for opposing offenses, shifting them into the conversation as a viable defensive unit in fantasy. Even better for fantasy managers, Washington’s upcoming schedule is packed with favorable matchups. They face the Giants next, a team struggling offensively and frequently allowing defensive scoring opportunities.
Following that, they take on the Steelers, a matchup that offers moderate appeal, before a stretch against the Eagles, Cowboys, and Titans, all of whom have proven susceptible to defensive and special teams (D/ST) scoring this season. This stretch of games positions Washington’s defense as a valuable option to consider for managers looking to stream a D/ST with consistent upside heading into the Commanders’ bye week.
Read Matt Okada’s full Week 9 Waiver Wire Watch
What is another Matchup to Exploit in the Fantasy Football Defense Rankings?
The Tennessee Titans stick out with a positive matchup during Week 9.
Analysis
Drake Maye’s availability remains uncertain as he progresses through the NFL’s five-phase concussion protocol, currently reported to be in the third stage. If Maye is unable to suit up and veteran Jacoby Brissett steps in as the starter, the Titans’ D/ST gains added appeal in fantasy leagues, particularly in deeper formats and daily fantasy sports (DFS) lineups.
Maye’s mobility has been a saving grace behind the Patriots’ struggling offensive line, allowing him to avoid some of the pressure. Even so, the rookie has still taken a sack on 8.5% of his dropbacks (9 out of 106), ranking him 10th highest among quarterbacks in sack rate. Brissett, with a similar but slightly higher sack rate of 9.7%, has experienced comparable struggles behind his line.
Whether it’s Maye or Brissett under center, the matchup presents ample sack potential, enhancing the Titans’ defensive upside in Week 9.
*Read Justin Edwards’ full O-Line Rankings and Matchups to Exploit: Week 9*
Who are some Week 9 Fantasy Defenses to avoid?
A few notable defenses have recently dropped out of the top 20 in Fantasy Football Defense Rankings, including the Seattle Seahawks, Indianapolis Colts, and Dallas Cowboys.
These units began the season with strong expectations but have faced challenges in recent weeks, impacting their fantasy value. The Seahawks, known for their disruptive secondary, have struggled with consistency and allowed some high-scoring games, diminishing their fantasy reliability.
The Colts, while showing flashes of potential, have been plagued by injuries and inconsistencies, making them a less dependable option.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys, who started the season as one of the most formidable defenses, have been inconsistent, facing tougher opponents and allowing more points than expected. Fantasy managers may need to explore alternative options or stream defenses until these teams regain their footing and climb back up the rankings.
For more advice on who to start check out the Fantasy Football DST Rankings Week 9.