The NFL season has officially kicked off! This year, the Dallas Cowboys, a team from the same division as the reigning champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, are getting ready for their 2025 matchup. With a 7.5-point advantage, the Eagles are favorites after the Cowboys traded away their star defender, Mika Parsons, just before the season started.
Let’s dive into the best DFS picks for this opening slate.
Top Picks and Solid Options
These athletes tend to be more expensive because they consistently rack up fantasy points. Sadly, we only have a few of them on our roster.
Jalen Hurts, QB, Eagles (Flex $12,200, CPT $18,300)
Hurts is often the safest choice for the game, especially with his rushing capability. Last season, he scored 14 rushing touchdowns, and he only had four games without a rush score. The Cowboys’ rushing defense wasn’t great last year, allowing two rushing touchdowns in their only matchup.
The Eagles might win without putting in too much effort, though the Cowboys’ offense has enough to keep things interesting. Still, I think the Eagles will grasp control early in the game.
Saquon Barkley, RB, Eagles (Flex $14,400, CPT $21,600)
Barkley should thrive, especially facing Dallas’s defensive line, backed by the best offensive line in the league. One concern is if the Eagles lead significantly, they might rest him later on. However, if they utilize him, he could put up impressive numbers. I do worry about his durability, but the opener should be easier for him.
His price is quite high, making it a challenge to fit him into my lineup if I want to grab his scores, but matching him with another star like Hurts could be tough.
Dak Prescott, QB, Cowboys (Flex $10,800, CPT $16,200)
Prescott will need to throw a lot to keep up and should find success getting the ball to players like CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. His salary is mid-range, and he probably provides better value than expected. While rushing touchdowns aren’t really his forte at this point, the weak running back depth makes him more likely to throw during the game.
George Pickens, WR, Cowboys (Flex $8,400, CPT $12,600)
Pickens is facing a tough matchup and, combined with his high price, he might not be a popular captain choice. However, he does provide good options given his advantages. He’s likely to get some deep targets, and despite tight coverage, he has the talent to make big plays. While risky, he’s a strong candidate for tournament picks.
Devonta Smith, WR, Eagles (Flex $9,600, CPT $14,400)
I could have included AJ Brown instead, considering that if this game turns competitive, Brown’s higher price may backfire. Both are good alternatives. Smith likely won’t have the same captain appeal as Brown, but he still presents solid opportunities to perform.
Shipley, RB, Eagles (Flex $3,400, CPT $5,100)
Shipley seems to have secured the RB2 spot, filling in for the injured Kenneth Gainwell. While Barkley will take most of the carries, there’s a chance for Shipley to shine if the Eagles build a lead. Last year, Barkley racked up 482 touches, so it’s possible Shipley might get time if they secure a safe margin.
Jake Ferguson, TE, Cowboys (Flex $5,000, CPT $7,500)
Ferguson is in for a tough game, but with defenses focused on containing Pickens and Lamb, he might provide a decent return at his price. With expected high pass volume, Ferguson could offer value and possibly score a touchdown.
Kavontae Turpin, WR, Cowboys (Flex $2,800, CPT $4,200)
Turpin may not have an overwhelming role given his price, but he offers potential. The Cowboys will need to be creative against the Eagles’ defense. Turpin is a dynamic player, although getting him involved can be tricky. Given the lack of strong options in the running back position, he could see opportunities in open schemes.
0 comment
