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.

Baker Mayfield engineers a late game-winning drive for the Buccaneers, rallying past the Texans after Nick Chubb pounded in the go-ahead score for Houston. Mayfield finishes 25-of-38, 215 yards, 2 TDs and a 33-yard scramble, thriving despite a torn-up line without Tristan Wirfs. Cleveland’s QB uncertainty remains a fantasy headache as Houston’s backfield gains relevance with Chubb now in their fold. Tampa Bay climbs to 2-0, with a Green Bay test on deck.