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.

Herbert and a pass-heavy Chargers attack outgained theRaiders in a 20-9 win, underscoring a sharper comfort level in Year 2 under Roman as LA leans into the air game while the offensive line opens tiny run lanes. Johnston erupts with three receiving TDs in two games, signaling a breakout for fantasy managers. On the other sideline, Geno Smith’s risky ball security compounds Vegas’ issues as three picks kill comeback chances. Bowers’ knee and Harbaugh-Carroll coaching duel add layers for Week 3 prep.

The Chargers sit 2-0 atop the AFC West, and the near-flawless defense stifles the Raiders’ offense, paving a clear path to continued fantasy relevance for Herbert and Johnston while highlighting cautions about Raiders’ pass efficiency and injury status ahead of the next matchup with Washington.