D'Andre Swift Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Fantasy players who will exceed their Week 3 projections

By Bruce Ewing | Last updated 9/21/23

Need a few players to go above and beyond their fantasy projections? This trio has the best chance to exceed expectations in Week 3.

D’Andre Swift (RB) Philadelphia Eagles

Running back Kenneth Gainwell could be back after missing last week with a rib injury and Boston Scott should return after suffering a concussion against the Vikings, but after running for 175 yards and 27.10 fantasy points in Yahoo! Leagues, it’s hard to imagine Swift taking a backseat to either player when the Eagles take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on “Monday Night Football.”

Swift’s rushing yards were most among running backs in Week 2 and aside from quarterback Jalen Hurts, he’s the only Eagle with a rushing touchdown this season. He won’t see 175 yards or 27 fantasy points against the Bucs, but he’ll do better than 11.23 fantasy points in a prime time game.

Nico Collins (WR) Houston Texans

Collins has exceeded his fantasy projection in two straight games. Last week, he crushed the number with 146 yards, a touchdown and 27.6 fantasy points against the Indianapolis Colts. Things will be tougher against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but based on his early chemistry with rookie quarterback C.J, Stroud, there’s reason to be optimistic for Week 3.

Nico Collins pic.twitter.com/eITDj3mKbL
— Nico (@elitetakes_) September 17, 2023

The third-year receiver leads all Texans in targets, catches and yards. His 226 yards are fifth-most among NFL receivers and the Jaguars have allowed 34.25 fantasy points per game to wide receivers so far. Collins should have no trouble beating his projected 11.47 fantasy points, especially if Jacksonville gets out to an early lead.

Hunter Henry (TE) New England Patriots

Henry leads all Patriots pass-catchers with 11 receptions and 108 yards after two games. He’s also the only NFL tight end with at least 50 yards and a touchdown in each of his team's games.

His 33.8 fantasy points scored are second-most by a tight end behind the Minnesota Vikings’ T.J. Hockenson, but according to his projection, he’s only due for 6.52 fantasy points against the New York Jets.

Henry’s number ranks 21st among tight ends for Week 3 and should be higher against a Jets team giving up 14.75 points to opposing tight ends. Look for Henry to outperform higher-ranked tight ends like the New York Giants' Darren Waller and Cleveland Browns' David Njoku.

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