With only two teams on bye in Week 9 of the 2026 NFL season, fantasy managers have more options but also tougher start-sit decisions. A proven computer model that simulates every game 10,000 times has released its Week 9 rankings, offering guidance on quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends.
The model has outperformed human experts over several seasons, notably identifying breakout players such as A.J. Brown, Jonathan Taylor, Derrick Henry, Christian McCaffrey, Alvin Kamara, and Jahmyr Gibbs early.
Key Week 9 Insights
At wide receiver, the model fades Carolina's Tetairoa McMillan despite his top-15 positional scoring and 80% start rate. McMillan has posted under 60 yards in each of his last two games and has only one touchdown this season, scoring just once in his last 10 games dating back to 2025. He faces a Denver defense that ranks among the top four in fewest fantasy points allowed to wide receivers.
At quarterback, the model elevates Miami's Malik Willis to a top-12 projection despite a 19% start rate last week. Willis has accounted for seven total touchdowns over his past three games, averaging the seventh-most fantasy points in that span. He now draws a Detroit defense that has allowed the most passing yards, passing touchdowns, and fantasy points to quarterbacks this season, with a game over/under of 50.5. The model ranks Willis above even Josh Allen.
The model also identifies a surprise tight end projected to finish in the top five at the position, despite barely cracking the top 15 in seasonal fantasy points. This pick could be a league-winning difference.
Setting Your Lineup
Backup running backs such as Kenny Gainwell (140 total yards), Tyler Allgeier (191 yards, two touchdowns), Braelon Allen (153 yards, one touchdown), and Mike Washington Jr. (83 yards) are coming off strong performances and warrant consideration. New quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders, Gardner Minshew, Drew Lock, and Joe Milton add further complexity to lineup decisions.
For complete Week 9 rankings for both PPR and standard leagues, including the model's full start-sit advice, fantasy managers can consult the model's projections.
