With only two teams on bye in Week 9 of the 2026 NFL season, fantasy managers have a larger player pool but face tougher start-sit decisions. A proven computer model that simulates every game 10,000 times has released its Week 9 fantasy football rankings for both PPR and standard leagues, offering guidance on quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends.
Quarterback Insights
The model projects Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis as a top-12 fantasy option this week, despite being started in only 19% of leagues previously. Willis has accounted for seven total touchdowns over his last three games and faces a Detroit Lions defense that has allowed the most passing yards, passing touchdowns, and fantasy points to quarterbacks this season. The game carries an over/under of 50.5, and Willis ranks above even Josh Allen in the model's rankings.
Wide Receiver Caution
Carolina Panthers wideout Tetairoa McMillan, who ranks among the top 15 in fantasy points at his position and is started in over 80% of leagues, does not crack the model's top 35 wide receivers for Week 9. McMillan has been held under 60 yards in each of his last two games and has found the end zone only once this season. He faces a Denver Broncos defense that has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to wide receivers.
Running Back Emergences
Backup running backs have made recent impressions: Kenny Gainwell (140 total yards), Tyler Allgeier (191 yards, two touchdowns), Braelon Allen (153 yards, one touchdown), and Mike Washington Jr. (83 yards) all posted strong showings. The model's projections will indicate whether they can sustain that production on Sunday.
Tight End Surprise
The model also identifies a surprising tight end projected to finish in the top five for Week 9, despite barely ranking inside the top 15 in positional fantasy points this season. This pick could be a decisive factor in weekly matchups.
Fantasy managers seeking the complete Week 9 rankings for every position can consult the model's full output to finalize lineups.
