Fantasy Analysts Recommend Brissett Wilson Starts for Week 5

On Oct. 9, 2026, fantasy football analysts identified key Week 5 lineup choices for Sunday games, with Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett and wide receiver Michael Wilson receiving strong recommendations because of favorable matchups and expected production.

NBC Sports reported that Brissett faces a Detroit Lions defense allowing the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks at 27.9 per game. The matchup carries a 54.5-point projected total, creating a favorable passing environment.

According to NBC Sports, Brissett has averaged 22.5 fantasy points per game in games with totals of at least 48 points since joining the Cardinals. Fantasy Life also placed Brissett among its top Week 5 quarterback targets.

Michael Wilson was also highlighted by both outlets as a strong starting option. NBC Sports said Wilson holds a 29 percent target share and 44 percent air yards share, while Fantasy Life ranked him among its preferred Week 5 wide receivers.

The Cardinals receiver benefits from a Detroit defense that NBC Sports described as allowing frequent explosive pass plays. Fantasy Life also noted the Lions have allowed the second-most fantasy points to wide receivers.

"Bris-sett it and forget it!" said Coach Gene Clemons. The phrase was included by Fantasy Life while discussing Brissett's favorable Week 5 matchup.

Other recommendations focused on players to avoid. NBC Sports advised sitting Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts after injuries affected key offensive players, including DeVonta Smith, Saquon Barkley, and Lane Johnson.

NBC Sports also listed New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough as a sit candidate against the Minnesota Vikings, whose defense ranks first in the league in EPA per dropback allowed according to the analysis.

At running back, NBC Sports recommended Bhayshul Tuten of the Jacksonville Jaguars and J.K. Dobbins of the Denver Broncos, while warning fantasy managers about difficult situations for Tony Pollard of the Tennessee Titans and Omarion Hampton of the Los Angeles Chargers.

The analysis also identified Parker Washington as a wide receiver option for Jacksonville and listed Rome Odunze of the Chicago Bears as a player to avoid because of limited target involvement.