Fantasy Football Week 2: Should You Start Croskey-Merritt And Boutte?

Shawn

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Post on Sep 12, 2025

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Fantasy Football Week 2: Should You Start Croskey-Merritt and Boutte?

Fantasy football managers everywhere are grappling with tough lineup decisions in Week 2, and two names causing significant debate are Khalil Herbert and Chris Olave. While exciting rookies like Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson are grabbing headlines, the question on many minds is: should you trust the potential upside of Khalil Herbert and Chris Olave in your starting lineup this week? Let's dive into the data and projections to help you make the best decision for your fantasy team.

Khalil Herbert: A Potential Breakout or a Risky Gamble?

After a strong showing in Week 1 filling in for the injured David Montgomery, Khalil Herbert's stock has soared. But is his performance sustainable? The Chicago Bears' offensive game plan, the health of David Montgomery, and the overall defensive matchups all factor into the equation.

• Week 1 Performance: Herbert impressed with his explosive runs and ability to find the endzone. This performance certainly boosts his fantasy value.
• Montgomery's Status: Montgomery's injury status is crucial. If he's healthy and back to his usual workload, Herbert's touches and fantasy points will likely decrease significantly. Keep an eye on injury reports throughout the week.
• Matchup Analysis: Analyzing the opposing team's run defense is crucial. A favorable matchup could significantly boost Herbert's projected points, while a tough defense might limit his production. Check out resources like for expert insight.

Should you start Herbert? The answer depends heavily on Montgomery's status and the strength of the opposing defense. If Montgomery is out or limited, Herbert becomes a strong RB2 or flex option. However, if Montgomery is healthy, Herbert's value drops considerably. Consider your other options before locking him into your starting lineup.

Chris Olave: A Consistent Performer or a Week 1 Fluke?

Chris Olave’s performance in Week 1 was impressive, demonstrating his potential as a high-volume receiver in the Saints offense. But can he maintain this level of production? Factors to consider include:

• Target Share: Olave commanded a significant number of targets in Week 1. Maintaining a high target share is crucial for consistent fantasy production. Look for trends in practice reports and game analysis to predict his target volume for Week 2.
• Quarterback Play: Derek Carr’s performance is directly tied to Olave's success. A strong showing from Carr will likely translate into more opportunities for Olave.
• Defensive Matchup: The opposing team's secondary is a critical factor. A weak secondary increases Olave's chances of a big game, while a strong secondary could stifle his production.

Should you start Olave? Based on Week 1 performance and his established role in the Saints offense, Olave is a strong WR2 or flex option. He's a safer bet than Herbert, but still carries some inherent risk.

Conclusion: Weighing the Risks and Rewards

Both Khalil Herbert and Chris Olave offer enticing fantasy potential, but both also come with considerable risk. Before making your final lineup decisions, consider:

• Injury Reports: Stay updated on the latest injury news.
• Matchup Analysis: Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the opposing defenses.
• Your Other Options: Evaluate your bench and other available players before making a final decision.

Remember, fantasy football is a game of probabilities. By carefully considering these factors and utilizing various fantasy football resources, you can make informed decisions that maximize your chances of winning your matchup. Good luck in Week 2!