NFL Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-25

Greetings, DFS fanatics! Your SportsPulse.com analyst is here to arm you with the sharpest picks for your DraftKings and FanDuel lineups this week. We’re dissecting matchups, analyzing recent form, and digging for value to help you dominate your contests. Let’s get straight to the action!

Top 3 Players to START This Week

1. Justin Herbert (QB - Los Angeles Chargers): Herbert is poised for a monster week. He’s averaging over 25 fantasy points in his last three outings, consistently throwing for high yardage and multiple touchdowns. This week, he faces a Denver Broncos secondary that has been hemorrhaging big plays and ranks among the worst in the league against opposing quarterbacks. Expect Herbert to air it out early and often, delivering elite QB numbers. 2. Bijan Robinson (RB - Atlanta Falcons): The Falcons are committed to establishing the run, and Robinson is the centerpiece. He's seen 20+ touches in his last two games, accumulating over 100 scrimmage yards in both. This week, Atlanta takes on a Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense that, while stout against the pass, has shown vulnerability to ground games, especially against backs who can catch out of the backfield. Robinson’s dual-threat ability makes him a high-floor, high-ceiling play. 3. Puka Nacua (WR - Los Angeles Rams): Even with Cooper Kupp back, Nacua continues to be a target hog. He’s averaged over 10 targets per game in his last four appearances, translating to consistent double-digit fantasy points in PPR formats. This week, the Rams face a struggling Arizona Cardinals defense that has given up significant production to opposing wideouts. Nacua's volume and red-zone involvement make him an essential start.

1. Javonte Williams (RB - Denver Broncos): Williams is a talented back, but his situation is concerning. He’s part of a frustrating committee, limiting his ceiling, and has yet to find the end zone this season. This week, he goes up against a formidable Kansas City Chiefs run defense that has bottled up opposing backs, allowing few rushing yards and even fewer fantasy points. His limited upside and tough matchup make him a risky play. 2. Garrett Wilson (WR - New York Jets): Wilson's talent is undeniable, but his quarterback situation continues to drag down his fantasy value. Despite his elite route-running, inconsistent QB play has led to fluctuating target numbers and limited big-play opportunities. This week, the Jets face a New England Patriots secondary that often deploys top-tier coverage schemes and can neutralize opposing team’s primary receiving threat. Until the QB play stabilizes, Wilson remains a bench candidate.

Two Value/Bargain Plays Under Salary Cap

1. Cole Kmet (TE - Chicago Bears): Kmet has quietly become a reliable target for the Bears, especially in the red zone. He’s seen an uptick in targets over the past few weeks and is consistently running routes. This week, he faces a Minnesota Vikings defense that has struggled to cover tight ends, making Kmet an excellent low-cost option with touchdown upside for your lineups. 2. Tyjae Spears (RB - Tennessee Titans): Spears offers tremendous value as a change-of-pace back who excels in the passing game. He’s consistently seen 5-8 targets per game and could see an increased workload if the Titans fall behind early. Against a defense that can be exploited by pass-catching backs, Spears provides a solid floor with big-play potential at a bargain price.

Geno Smith (QB - Seattle Seahawks): After a disappointing outing against the Patriots (13-29 loss), many fantasy managers will fade Smith. However, this is precisely why he’s a bold contrarian pick. He's too talented to stay down, and this week the Seahawks face a Detroit Lions defense that, while improved, can still be vulnerable through the air, especially to deep shots. Smith will be low-owned, but if he connects with Lockett and Metcalf, he could easily exceed expectations and deliver tournament-winning upside.

Good luck with your lineups this week, DFS army! Stay sharp, trust the process, and let's go get those championships!

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