Week 1 Fantasy Football PPR Rankings: Sleeper Picks & Busts

Shawn

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Post on Sep 08, 2025

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Week 1 Fantasy Football PPR Rankings: Sleeper Picks & Busts to Dominate Your League

Fantasy football season is HERE! The anticipation is palpable, the draft dust has settled, and now it's time to navigate the treacherous waters of Week 1. This year, more than ever, smart strategy and identifying those crucial sleeper picks and potential busts is key to a winning start in your PPR (Points Per Reception) league. Don't get caught off guard – use our expert rankings and analysis to make informed decisions and gain a crucial early-season advantage.

Understanding PPR Scoring:

Before diving into the rankings, it's crucial to remember that PPR leagues reward receptions heavily. This means players with high target volume, even if they don't always break off big gains, can become valuable assets. This shifts the value of certain players compared to standard scoring leagues.

Top 5 Week 1 PPR Sleepers:

• Elijah Moore, WR, Cleveland Browns: Moore's landing spot in Cleveland offers significant upside. With Deshaun Watson's increased comfort in the offense and a potential lack of other dominant receiving threats, Moore could see a substantial target share, making him a sneaky PPR gem in Week 1.

• Dalton Schultz, TE, Houston Texans: Schultz is joining a Texans team desperately needing a reliable pass-catching tight end. In a new offense that should feature a heavier pass attack, Schultz could emerge as a consistent target for C.J. Stroud, offering a significant return in PPR formats.

• Alexander Mattison, RB, Minnesota Vikings: While Dalvin Cook's departure left a gaping hole, Mattison's value in PPR shouldn't be underestimated. He’s proven himself capable of carrying the load and should see a significant increase in targets and receptions, potentially making him a steal in PPR leagues.

• Michael Thomas, WR, New Orleans Saints: A return to health for Michael Thomas could bring an explosive start. If he's fully recovered, his connection with Derek Carr presents a compelling opportunity for huge PPR points. However, monitor his practice reports closely before finalizing your lineup.

• Skyy Moore, WR, Kansas City Chiefs: With the departure of Juju Smith-Schuster, there's increased opportunity for Skyy Moore to excel in the Chiefs' explosive offense. While not a guaranteed starter, his potential for big plays and receptions makes him a high-risk, high-reward sleeper.

Week 1 PPR Bust Alert:

• Austin Ekeler, RB, Los Angeles Chargers: While Ekeler remains a top-tier running back, his fantasy production is often heavily reliant on touchdowns. In PPR formats, his receiving involvement might not always translate into the massive point totals expected, potentially leading to disappointment in certain matchups. Consider his opponent's run defense carefully.

• Travis Kelce, TE, Kansas City Chiefs: Kelce's incredible talent is undeniable, but his high draft cost might not justify his potential return in Week 1. With other compelling tight end options available, stretching for Kelce in the early rounds might not be the optimal strategy, especially considering the potential for a target distribution shift with Skyy Moore's emergence.

• Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts: Taylor's injury history and the Colts' offensive uncertainty make him a high-risk player. While possessing undeniable talent, his Week 1 production is far from guaranteed.

Conclusion:

Week 1 is a crucial time to establish a strong foundation in your fantasy football season. By carefully considering these sleeper picks and potential busts, and taking advantage of the in-depth analysis provided, you can significantly increase your chances of a winning start. Remember to always stay updated on the latest injury reports and news before setting your lineup. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

Further Reading:

• [Link to a reputable fantasy football website with expert analysis]
• [Link to another relevant article on PPR strategy]

(CTA): Share your own Week 1 fantasy football predictions in the comments below!