Fantasy Football Starts of the Week: Vidal, Dart, and Herbert Set for Big Performances

Week 10 brings fresh opportunities as injuries and depth chart changes create new fantasy starters across the league. Several players are positioned to capitalize on increased roles, making them prime candidates for your fantasy lineup this week.

Kimani Vidal (RB - Los Angeles Chargers)

Vidal has emerged as the Chargers' clear lead back due to a decimated depth chart. Najee Harris, Omarion Hampton, and Hassan Haskins are all on injured reserve, leaving Vidal to handle primary rushing duties with only practice squad elevation Jaret Patterson as his main backup. The rookie showed his ceiling in Week 8 against Minnesota with 23 carries for 117 yards and a touchdown. While Week 9 against Tennessee was a struggle with just 30 yards on 12 carries, game script worked against him as the Chargers built an early lead. His 4.68 yards per carry this season demonstrates solid efficiency when given opportunities. With Hampton not expected back until after the Week 12 bye, Vidal's role remains secure for the next three weeks.

Jaxson Dart (QB - New York Giants)

Dart has been a fantasy goldmine since taking over as the Giants' starter in Week 4. The rookie quarterback was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month for October and ranks third among all quarterbacks in total fantasy points since Week 5. He averages 22.9 fantasy points per game and has scored both a passing and rushing touchdown in four straight contests. His dual-threat ability shines with 251 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns on just 51 attempts. Despite losing key weapons Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo to season-ending injuries, Dart continues to produce consistent fantasy numbers. His 134.1 standard points through nine weeks puts him in QB1 territory, and opposing coordinators like Robert Saleh have praised his talent level.

Justin Herbert (QB - Los Angeles Chargers)

Herbert leads the NFL with 2,390 passing yards and averages 267.5 passing yards per game, both tops among active quarterbacks. His 296 pass attempts through Week 8 also lead the league, showing the Chargers trust him with heavy volume. The veteran quarterback has thrown eight touchdowns over his last three games entering Week 8 and added a season-high 62 rushing yards against Minnesota. His 97.34 passer rating demonstrates improved efficiency despite taking the third-most sacks in the NFL. With the Chargers needing to stay competitive in a tight playoff race, Herbert's passing volume should remain elite. His combination of volume, efficiency, and occasional rushing upside makes him a strong QB1 start.

Dyami Brown (WR - Jacksonville Jaguars)

Brown represents a deep sleeper option at just 3% roster rate in Yahoo leagues but offers upside with Jacksonville's receiving corps banged up. Travis Hunter is on injured reserve with a knee injury while Brian Thomas Jr. continues dealing with a high ankle sprain that has limited his effectiveness. Brown was a limited participant in Wednesday practice after suffering a concussion in Week 9, suggesting he could clear protocol for Sunday. When healthy, he has shown decent production with 19 catches for 219 yards this season and has topped 50 receiving yards in three games. The Jaguars' acquisition of Jakobi Meyers adds competition, but Brown should see expanded targets if Thomas Jr. remains limited. He makes sense as a desperation flex play or deeper league option given the opportunity ahead of him.

Filed under: Free Articles