Fantasy Week 2: Mayfield Rebound, Willis Woes, and Waiver Wire Steals

Key points

Baker Mayfield is a strong start for Week 2 despite Week 1 fumbles, as advanced metrics were positive and the Browns defense is vulnerable.

Malik Willis is a sit for NBC Sports due to poor usage and a tough matchup, but Bleacher Report suggests adding him as a high-ceiling streamer.

Kenneth Gainwell is a sit for NBC Sports, but CBS Sports rates him as a start, highlighting a major disagreement on his role.

Emeka Egbuka is a consensus start, with both NBC Sports and CBS Sports highlighting his high target share and air yards.

Waiver wire targets include Kendre Miller, Alvin Kamara, and Mack Hollins, with specific FAAB recommendations provided by Bleacher Report.

Background

This is the second week of the 2026 NFL season. Week 1 provided initial data for fantasy managers. Baker Mayfield had a rough Week 1 with three fumbles but positive advanced metrics. Malik Willis had a solid debut for the Dolphins. The Browns are expected to start Deshaun Watson in Week 2, as noted in our archive from September 14.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and CBS Sports agree on starting Baker Mayfield and Emeka Egbuka. However, they disagree on Kenneth Gainwell, with NBC Sports advising a sit and CBS Sports a start. NBC Sports advises sitting Malik Willis, while Bleacher Report recommends adding him as a waiver wire pickup. CBS Sports rates Tyler Shough as a start, while NBC Sports also starts him but notes a tough matchup. Bleacher Report highlights Kendre Miller and Mack Hollins as waiver wire steals, which are not mentioned in the other sources.

Why it matters

Fantasy managers need to make start/sit decisions for Week 2. The disagreements on players like Willis and Gainwell can significantly impact fantasy scores. Waiver wire pickups can provide valuable depth, especially in PPR leagues. The advanced metrics and matchup analysis help managers make informed decisions beyond just Week 1 results.

What to watch

Week 2 games will provide more data for fantasy managers. The performance of players like Mayfield, Willis, and Gainwell will determine their future fantasy value. Waiver wire pickups like Kendre Miller and Mack Hollins will need to be evaluated based on their Week 2 performance. The next week will also provide insights into the long-term viability of these players in fantasy lineups.