Week 5 of the NFL season has already delivered plenty of surprises, and with bye weeks and injuries reshaping lineups, the flex spot is where matchups can be won or lost. Looking at player usage and upcoming opponents, here are a few names you should feel comfortable starting and sitting in the flex position.
Start ’Em Flex Options
J.K. Dobbins (RB, Broncos)
Dobbins has worked his way back into relevance with Denver after an injury-plagued stretch in Baltimore. The Broncos have leaned on him in red-zone situations, and his ability to grind out tough yards makes him a steady Week 5 option. With rookie quarterback Bo Nix still adjusting, expect Denver to give Dobbins plenty of opportunities to set the tone.
Woody Marks (RB, Texans)
Marks has emerged as a surprise factor in Houston’s backfield. He’s flashed explosiveness on early downs and has carved out a role in passing situations as well. With the Texans’ offense moving the ball efficiently, Marks’ versatility makes him an appealing flex start, particularly in PPR formats.
Darius Slayton (WR, Giants)
With Malik Nabers sidelined, Slayton’s target share has jumped. He showed his ability to stretch the field in Week 4 and should continue to be a reliable option in a Giants offense that desperately needs playmakers. Volume alone makes him a strong flex candidate heading into Week 5.
Rashid Shaheed (WR, Saints)
Shaheed remains one of the league’s best deep threats. His big-play upside gives him a high ceiling, and with New Orleans making a more conscious effort to push the ball vertically, he’s worth starting if you need a spark at flex.
Sit ’Em Flex Options
Darren Waller (TE, Dolphins)
Waller’s return was promising, but the workload simply isn’t there yet. His fantasy value is too touchdown-dependent, making him a risky start until his role stabilizes.
Chase Brown (RB, Bengals)
Brown remains buried in Cincinnati’s backfield rotation. Without a clear path to consistent touches, it’s safer to keep him on the bench.
Troy Franklin (WR, Broncos)
Franklin has flashed talent as a rookie, but inconsistency in Denver’s passing game limits his fantasy value. He’s a stash candidate, not a Week 5 starter.
Final Word
Flex decisions often decide fantasy outcomes. Dobbins, Marks, Slayton, and Shaheed offer volume or explosive upside worth banking on, while Waller, Brown, and Franklin carry far too much risk.
Read More:
Baker Mayfield Injury Update: What Fantasy Owners Need to Know About Buccaneers QB Ahead of Week 5
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