Fantasy Football Lineup Decisions: Doubs, Golden, And Kraft – Start Or Bench?

Shawn

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Post on Sep 12, 2025

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Fantasy Football Lineup Decisions: Doubs, Golden, and Kraft – Start or Bench?

Fantasy football playoffs are here, and for many, the pressure is on. Making the right lineup decisions can mean the difference between a championship and an early exit. This week, we’re tackling three particularly tricky choices: Christian Watson's teammate Romeo Doubs, Elijah Moore's replacement in Cleveland, David Bell, and the surprising Jakobi Meyers’ replacement, Kendrick Bourne. Should you start them, or leave them on the bench? Let's dive in.

Romeo Doubs: A Risky Gamble or Hidden Gem?

Romeo Doubs' fantasy performance has been inconsistent at best this season. While he's flashed potential with some big plays alongside Aaron Rodgers and Christian Watson, his overall production has been underwhelming. His targets have fluctuated wildly, making him a high-risk, high-reward option.

• The Case for Starting Doubs: A breakout game is always possible. If Rodgers decides to target him more frequently, Doubs could easily pay off. He's shown the ability to make big plays downfield, and a favorable matchup could lead to a significant fantasy point haul. Remember the Packers offense has the potential to explode any given week.

• The Case for Benching Doubs: His inconsistency is a major concern. He's easily replaced in the lineup, even by less-heralded players in better offensive schemes. If you’re in a must-win situation, relying on Doubs could be a gamble you can't afford. Consider the Packers' overall offensive performance; if they struggle, Doubs' potential is significantly diminished.

David Bell: Stepping Up in Cleveland?

With Elijah Moore's departure, David Bell is poised to see increased opportunities in the Cleveland Browns' offense. But is that enough to make him a starting-caliber player in your fantasy lineup?

• The Case for Starting Bell: The increased targets are certainly appealing. Bell has shown flashes of talent and could benefit from a more consistent role within the Browns' offensive system. He’s certainly a player to monitor closely and a strong option if you need a WR3.

• The Case for Benching Bell: The Browns' offense has been inconsistent this year, and Bell's production might not immediately reflect the increase in targets. He's still relatively unproven at the NFL level, and it's unclear whether he can consistently produce fantasy-relevant numbers. It's a high-risk play.

Kendrick Bourne: A Meyers' Replacement Worth the Risk?

Jakobi Meyers' injury has opened the door for Kendrick Bourne to step into a more significant role in the Patriots' offense. But can he capitalize on the opportunity?

• The Case for Starting Bourne: Bourne's experience and talent are undeniable. He's shown the ability to produce in the past, and with increased targets, he could become a valuable asset to your fantasy team, offering a decent floor. A more targeted pass offense with Bourne as a focal point, despite its limitations, offers upside.

• The Case for Benching Bourne: The Patriots' offense is notoriously unpredictable. Even with increased snaps, Bourne's production might remain inconsistent. His ceiling is limited compared to other receivers in the league.

The Bottom Line:

Ultimately, the decision to start or bench Doubs, Bell, and Bourne depends on your specific team needs, your league's scoring system, and your risk tolerance. Consider their matchups, their recent performances, and your overall roster depth. If you’re unsure, leaning towards a safer option might be the smarter move, especially in the playoffs. Remember to always check injury reports before making your final decisions.

What are your thoughts? Share your lineup decisions in the comments below!