Who Should I Start? Evan McPherson or Chad Ryland

Saturday, October 4, 2:13 PM

Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson has been a victim of the team's offensive struggles in 2025. While he has yet to miss a kick, McPherson has only four attempts through four games, ranking 28th among all kickers. The Bengals' offense has been one of the least efficient in the NFL, sitting 30th in points per game (15.3), last in total yards per game (205.3), and dead last in time of possession (25:32). Simply put, McPherson isn't getting opportunities. The Week 5 matchup doesn't offer much upside either, as the Detroit Lions have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to kickers this season. With backup Jake Browning leading the Bengals' offense, scoring chances are unlikely to improve. McPherson remains a reliable kicker in terms of accuracy, but the lack of volume makes him unplayable in fantasy. He should be left out of starting lineups in Week 5.

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.