Week 3’s fantasy defense slate centers on streaming value and clear starts, led by Green Bay, Seattle, Buffalo, and Indianapolis in Tier 1 with favorable matchups and strong pressure outputs. Expect continued sack-heavy games from these units, plus solid floor from the Falcons, Buccaneers, and Chiefs. Tier 2 adds Vikings, Texans, and Cardinals in matchups that carry swing potential if pass rush and turnover luck align. Tier 3 brings Commanders, Steelers, and Eagles in sturdy, mix-and-match starts. Tier 4-6 caution managers to seek safer streams or deeper-league plays and exploit waiver opportunities.

Key Week 3 takeaways: target defenses with high sack rates and favorable implied game scripts, especially when facing rookie QBs or O-lines with documented struggles. Watch injury reports and quarterback status closely, as even small changes can swing a D/ST’s Week 3 upside. This guide emphasizes tiered rankings, waiver adds, and start/sit decisions to help fantasy managers optimize lineups and shave points off potential losses.

The Chicago Bears’ defense—once the franchise’s pride—was flat-footed in a 52-21 drubbing by Detroit, forcing a sudden identity crisis just two games in. With Jaylon Johnson sidelined by a groin tweak, the unit coughed up big plays, failed to pressure Jared Goff, and allowed Lions receivers to run free. GM Ryan Poles’ heavy defensive investments are under the microscope as Chicago braces for an upcoming Dallas test and tries to salvage a season already off the rails.