Who Should I Start? Chad Ryland or Jake Bates

Saturday, October 4, 12:59 PM

Arizona Cardinals kicker Chad Ryland has connected on eight of 10 field goal attempts and all eight of his extra-point tries through his first four games of 2025. Both he and the Cardinals should have plenty of opportunities to put points on the board in Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans, who are allowing an average of 30 points per game so far this season. Ryland also has the benefit of playing this week at home in Arizona, eliminating any weather concerns from the equation. The 25-year-old profiles as a low-end starting fantasy kicker option in Week 5 against Tennessee.

Saturday, October 18, 11:02 PM

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates has benefited from his team's high-powered offense through the first six weeks of the season, as Bates has both attempted and made the most extra-point tries (24) in the NFL. The 26-year-old has also knocked in seven of nine field goal attempts. The Lions will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 7 in what looks on paper like a high-scoring affair. The two teams are currently averaging a combined 59.3 points per contest. Bates will also have the advantage in Week 7 of kicking at home inside the domed Ford Field, so weather will not play a factor in the kicking game. Bates profiles as a must-start kicker in Week 7 against Tampa Bay.