IDP Fantasy Football Linebacker Usage Report For Week 10

It’s time to talk about everyone’s favorite position in IDP: the linebacker. They are the glue that holds the legs of our IDP roster together. Whenever an injury goes down to an LB, the first question is, “Who’s next?” and that guy gets immediately scooped up.

We have reached Week 10, and like Draft Day, a lot has happened since Week 4. Injuries, demotions, and more injuries. So, what does that mean for the linebackers as we head into the final stretch of the fantasy regular season?

Before we look at the linebacker utilization, let’s look at some trends heading into Week 10 and beyond:

1. Several green-dot LBs aren’t producing. 

TJ Edwards, Robert Spillane, Demario Davis, Derrick Barnes, Alex Anzalone, Devin Lloyd, and Shemar James all have the dot with tackle rates around 10% or lower. The linebacker next to them is often the better play: Devin Bush, Christian Elliss, Jamien Sherwood, Josiah Trotter, Sonny Styles. The green dot gets a linebacker on the field, but it doesn’t guarantee tackles.

2. The pass-heavy offenses are where base linebackers get hurt

Base-only guys like Trenton Simpson, Dorian Williams, Omar Speights, Tommy Eichenberg, Ventrell Miller, Cerdric Gray and Jack Cochrane come off the field against 11 personnel. The Panthers (64.2% pass), Packers (63.9%) and Bengals (63.7%) take them out of the game.

3. Nickel-heavy two-linebacker defenses are safe every week. 

The Browns, Panthers, Bengals and Saints keep both linebackers on the field in nickel, so pass-heavy matchups don’t cost them snaps. Quincy Williams, Demetrius Knight, and Pete Werner are a few of the guys who are in 2-LB defenses. 

4. Some offenses are worth targeting all month. 

The Bills (most tackles allowed to off-ball LBs, second-most run-heavy), 49ers (most over the last three, lots of 21 personnel), Rams (13 personnel about half the time), Lions (inside runs, 12 and 13 personnel), Buccaneers (most run-heavy) and Bears (33.7 runs a game).

5. Some offenses to fade. 

The Packers, Eagles and Dolphins are allowing the fewest tackles to off-ball LBs. The Eagles also play out of 11 personnel about 79% of the time.

6. The Rams’ zero-linebacker looks. 

They’ve played 191 snaps of dime or 7+ DB over these five weeks, and Landman lost the dot to a safety. If that keeps growing, he could become a two-down linebacker.

Now, let’s get into the utilization data and what is potentially in store for our linebacker for the next several weeks.

All data is from Weeks 5-9.

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AFC East

Buffalo Bills

• Terrel Bernard: Bernard has the green dot, but he and Elarms-Orr have been splitting series. Bernard is leading the rotation. He's played between 76% and 95% of the snaps in each of the last four games. He's on the field for every two-minute snap and 83% of third downs. He has 28 tackles over that stretch with a 14.1% tackle rate, and he picked off a pass against Minnesota in Week 9. He's a solid LB2, but the rotation keeps him from being a weekly LB1.
• Dorian Williams: Williams is a base linebacker. He plays 100% of base snaps but only 42% in sub packages, and he hasn't played a single two-minute snap over the last four games. That's been a problem with the Bills going to nickel and dime more often. His snap share has dropped every game, from 78% in Week 5 to 39% in Week 9. He plays 91.9% of snaps against 13 personnel but only 40.8% against 11. He has 20 tackles and a 13.9% tackle rate, but only 4 of those tackles are solo. He's under 70% of the snaps, so I'm not interested in playing him.
• Kaleb Elarms-Orr: Elarms-Orr is the other half of the green dot rotation. I list both here, just because in the event of a Bernard injury, he’s the dot. He's been between 26% and 31% of the snaps in three of the last four games, and almost all of it comes in sub packages. He has 7 tackles on 51 snaps. The snaps aren't there yet, but he's a speculative add in redraft. He's a dynasty stash if the Bills hand him more of the rotation.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Bills open at the Jets in Week 10, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. New York runs it on 43.5% of their plays and used 13 personnel on 17% and 21% of their snaps in Weeks 7 and 8. They're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, and 19.3 over the last four. Heavy personnel keeps Buffalo in base, which is good for Bernard and gets Williams back on the field since he plays 100% of the base snaps. The Jets only run inside 44.3% of the time, 29th in the league, so it isn't a perfect setup.

The Dolphins come to Buffalo in Week 11. They run it on 48% of their plays, the seventh-most, but they're only allowing 16 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fourth-fewest, and 14 over the last three, the fewest in the league. They use 21 personnel on about 24% of their snaps, which helps Williams a little. Bernard is still an LB2, but I'd lower expectations.

The Chiefs come to Buffalo on Thanksgiving in Week 12. They run it on 44.2% of their plays and have been in 12 personnel on about 34% of their snaps over the last four weeks. They're allowing 18.5 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but that's dropped to 16 over the last four. The heavier personnel should keep Bernard on the field.

Week 13 at New England is neutral. The Patriots run it on 46% of their plays, 10th most, and they're allowing 17 tackles/gm to off-ball linebackers, seventh fewest, and 17.8 over the last four. They're in 11 personnel about 60% of the time. That's where the Bills go to sub packages, and where the Bernard and Elarms-Orr rotation shows up most.

Week 14 at Green Bay is the one I'd avoid. The Packers throw it on 63.9% of their plays, second most in the league, and they're in 11 personnel on about 63% of their snaps. That means a lot of nickel and dime for Buffalo, which takes Williams off the field and gives Elarms-Orr more snaps. The Packers are allowing 14.2 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fewest in the league. If you have a better option than Bernard that week, I'd seek alternates.

Miami Dolphins

• Jacob Rodriguez: Rodriguez has the green dot and a three-down role. He has 33 tackles with a 14.2% tackle rate. He had 11 tackles in Week 5 and 10 in Week 9. He's a weekly starter.
• Jordyn Brooks: Brooks has played at least 98% of the snaps in each of the last three games. He's on the field for 92% of third downs and 94% of base snaps. He has 40 tackles with an 18.8% tackle rate and 3 TFLs, and he's climbing (8, 9, 11 and 12 tackles). He's been the better fantasy option of the two, and he’s another weekly starter.
• Willie Gay: Gay was inactive in Week 7. When he plays, he's at about 50% of the snaps, mostly in base. He's only played 14% of the sub-package snaps. He has 11 tackles on 92 snaps, and only one of those is solo. I'm not interested in playing him.
• Jackson Woodard: Woodard played 50% of the snaps in Week 7 with Gay inactive, and only one snap in Week 9. He's only an injury replacement.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Indianapolis is neutral. The Colts run it on 43.1% of their plays, and 54.7% of those runs go inside, the eighth-most. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, but only 15.5 over the last four.

Week 11 at Buffalo is the best matchup of the stretch. The Bills are allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the most in the league, and 23.7 over the last three. They run it on 50.8% of their plays, second most, and use 13 personnel on 20% to 39% of their snaps. Miami is a base-heavy defense, so that's where Rodriguez and Brooks both shine.

The Jets come to Miami in Week 12. They run it on 43.5% of their plays, but only 44.3% of those runs go inside, 29th in the league. They're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.3 over the last four.

Week 13 at Denver is neutral. The Broncos run it on 42.8% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 59% of the time. They're allowing 17.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the eighth-fewest, but 19.5 over the last four.

The Bears come to Miami in Week 14, and that's another great one. Chicago runs it on 47.7% of their plays, eighth most, at 33.7 runs a game, and leans on 12 and 13 personnel. They're allowing 20.2 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fourth-most.

New England Patriots

• Robert Spillane: Spillane has the green dot, but the tackles haven't followed. He's had 4 or 5 tackles in every game, and only 3 solo tackles over the last five games. That's 23 tackles with a 7.8% tackle rate. I don't think we need to go chasing him because of the dot. He's an LB3/4 in deeper leagues where you're starting 4+ linebackers. The production has been a disappointment.
• Christian Elliss: Elliss has played the same snaps as Spillane, between 82% and 100% each week. He's on the field for 95% of third downs and 97% of two-minute snaps. He has 40 tackles with a 13.6% tackle rate, plus 4 TFLs and 10 pressures. He had 13 tackles in Week 7. He's the Patriots linebacker I want, and he's an LB2.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Detroit is a great matchup. The Lions run it 28.8 times a game, and 55.3% of those runs go inside, the sixth-most. They lean on 12 and 13 personnel, which keeps the linebackers on the field. They're allowing 22.3 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers over the last three, the fourth-most.

The Patriots are on bye in Week 11.

Week 12 at the Chargers is neutral. They run it on 45% of their plays and use 21 personnel on about 30% of their snaps, but they only run inside 45.3% of the time, 28th in the league. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.3 over the last three.

The Bills come to New England in Week 13, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. Buffalo is allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the most in the league, and 23.7 over the last three. They run it on 50.8% of their plays, second most. I like Elliss that week.

The Vikings come to New England on Thursday night in Week 14. They run it on 46% of their plays, but they're only allowing 16.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fifth-fewest, and 15.3 over the last three. That's a tough one.

New York Jets

• Demario Davis: Davis has the green dot and a three-down role. The tackles haven't been there. He has 30 tackles with a 9.4% tackle rate and 7 missed tackles. His best game was 9 tackles in Week 9. He's an LB3.
• Jamien Sherwood: Sherwood has played at least 94% of the snaps every week. He's on the field for 91% of third downs and 98% of two-minute snaps. He has 46 tackles with a 14.6% tackle rate and 3 TFLs. He had 14 tackles in Week 8 and 11 in Week 6. He's the Jets linebacker I want, and he's an LB2.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Bills come to New York in Week 10, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. Buffalo is allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the most in the league, and 23.7 over the last three. They run it on 50.8% of their plays, second most, and use 13 personnel on 20% to 39% of their snaps. I like both Jets linebackers that week.

Week 11 at the Chargers is neutral. They run it on 45% of their plays and use 21 personnel on about 30% of their snaps, but they only run inside 45.3% of the time, 28th in the league. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs.

Week 12 at Miami is the one I'd avoid. The Dolphins run it on 48% of their plays, the seventh-most, but they're only allowing 16 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fourth-fewest, and 14 over the last three, the fewest in the league. I'm not interested in playing Davis that week.

The Jets are on bye in Week 13.

The Broncos come to New York in Week 14. They run it on 42.8% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 59% of the time. They're allowing 17.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the eighth-fewest, but 19.5 over the last four.

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

• Roquan Smith: Smith has the green dot and a three-down role. He's on the field for 90% of third downs and 90% of two-minute snaps. He has 40 tackles (21 solo) over the last five games with a 14.8% tackle rate. His one dip was Week 8 at 64%. He was dealing with an injury that week and was held out of the fourth quarter of the 36-10 loss in Buffalo. He was back to his normal usage in Week 9. He's an LB1 every week.
• Trenton Simpson: Simpson is the base linebacker next to Smith. He plays 76% of base snaps but only 57% in sub packages. He's on the field for 41% of third downs and 29% of two-minute snaps. Half of his snaps come against the run. He plays 77.1% of snaps against 12 personnel but only 56.3% against 11. He's been under 70% of the snaps in four of the last five games, but he has 30 tackles and a 15.6% tackle rate. He makes plays when he's out there. He's a deeper-league add or play where you're starting 5+ linebackers, and he's best against offenses that keep the Ravens in base.
• Teddye Buchanan: Buchanan is the third linebacker. He got 53% of the snaps in Week 8 when Smith was banged up and held out of the fourth quarter. He's been at 30% or less in every other game. He has 15 tackles on 91 snaps. He's only worth a look in the event of an injury.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Chargers come to Baltimore in Week 10. They run it on 45% of their plays, 12th most, and they use 21 personnel on about 30% of their snaps over the last three weeks. That keeps Baltimore in base, which is where Simpson plays 76% of the snaps. Half of his snaps come against the run, so a run-leaning offense is good for him. One thing to watch is that the Chargers only run inside 45.3% of the time, 28th in the league, so some of those tackles will go to the edges. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.3 over the last three. Simpson is a solid deeper-league play that week.

Week 11 at Carolina is a tough one. The Panthers throw it on 64.2% of their plays, the most in the league. That means a lot of nickel for Baltimore, and Simpson is only on the field for 57% of sub-package snaps. The Panthers are allowing 16.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the sixth-fewest. Smith is still an LB1 because he doesn't come off the field, but I'd temper expectations.

Week 12 at Houston is another pass-heavy matchup. The Texans throw it on 60.7% of their plays and were in 11 personnel on 86.4% of their snaps in Week 9. They're allowing 17.8 tackles/gm to off-ball linebackers, but that's up to 19.7 over the last three. Baltimore will be in nickel a lot, so Simpson's snaps will probably dip. I'm not interested in playing him that week.

The Ravens are on bye in Week 13.

The Buccaneers come to Baltimore in Week 14, and that's the best matchup of the bunch. Tampa Bay runs it on 52.4% of their plays, the most in the league, and they leaned on 12 and 13 personnel in Weeks 7 and 8. They're allowing 19.8 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fifth-most. A run-heavy offense in heavier personnel keeps the Ravens in base and keeps Simpson on the field. I like Smith that week, and Simpson is a deeper-league play again.

Cincinnati Bengals

• Barrett Carter: Carter has the green dot and a three-down role. He's been as steady as it gets over the last four games, with at least 8 tackles in every game (11, 9, 8, and 10). That's 38 tackles with a 15% tackle rate, plus 2 TFLs and a sack. He's an LB1 every week.
• Demetrius Knight: Knight is the other linebacker in the nickel. He's played between 73% and 86% of the snaps in each of the last four games. He's on the field for 80% of the sub-package snaps and 83% of two-minute snaps. Where he comes off is on some third downs, where he's at 73%. He has 29 tackles (16 solo) with a 14.2% tackle rate and 3 TFLs. He's over 70% every week, so he's a solid LB3 with LB2 weeks in the right matchup.
• Oren Burks: Burks has been between 11% and 17% of the snaps every week, mostly on early downs. He's only an injury replacement.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Steelers come to Cincinnati on Sunday night in Week 10. They throw it on 61.9% of their plays, the fifth most in the league. That usually hurts linebackers, but the Bengals are already in nickel most of the time, so it doesn't change much for Carter. It can take a few third-down snaps away from Knight. When the Steelers run, 57.5% of those runs go inside, the fourth most in the league, and they're allowing 19.7 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers over the last three. I like Carter that week, and Knight is a fine LB3.

Week 11 at Washington on Monday night is another good one. The Commanders run inside on 63.8% of their carries, the most in the league, and inside runs go straight at the linebackers. They're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs and are in 11 personnel about 62% of the time, which is the look the Bengals want to be in anyway.

The Saints come to Cincinnati in Week 12. They throw it on 61.8% of their plays and have been in 11 personnel on 75% or more of their snaps the last three weeks. They're also allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the fifth most. Passing teams that play fast give linebackers in a nickel defense plenty of chances. I like both Bengals linebackers that week.

Week 13 at Cleveland is the one I'd be careful with. The Browns throw it on 57.9% of their plays, and when they run, only 45.9% of those runs go inside, 26th in the league. More outside runs means more tackles going to the edges and safeties. They're allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the ninth fewest. Carter is still an LB1, but I'd lower expectations for Knight.

The Chiefs come to Cincinnati in Week 14. They run it on 44.2% of their plays and have been in 12 personnel on about 34% of their snaps over the last four weeks. They're allowing 18.5 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but only 16 over the last four. Heavier personnel can pull the Bengals out of nickel, and Knight's snaps hold up there since he plays 76% of the base snaps.

Cleveland Browns

• Carson Schwesinger: Schwesinger has the green dot and a three-down role. He hasn't missed a snap over the last five games. He has 54 tackles (28 solo) with a 17.1% tackle rate, plus 3 sacks and 3 TFL. He had 15 tackles in Week 9 and 13 in Week 6. He's an LB1 every week.
• Quincy Williams: Williams has played between 90% and 100% of the snaps each week. The Browns are almost never in base, so both linebackers stay on the field in nickel. He's on the field for 88% of third downs and 83% of two-minute snaps. He has 39 tackles (23 solo) with a 12.9% tackle rate and 4 TFLs. He's a solid LB3 with LB2 weeks.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Texans come to Cleveland in Week 10. They throw it on 60.7% of their plays and were in 11 personnel on 86.4% of their snaps in Week 9. That usually hurts linebackers, but the Browns already live in nickel, so it doesn't change much for these two. Houston is allowing 17.8 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, but that's up to 19.7 over the last three.

The Browns are on bye in Week 11.

The Raiders come to Cleveland in Week 12. They use 12 personnel more than anyone, more than 60% of the time in most weeks, and only run it on 39.9% of their plays. They're allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the eighth most, but only 15.8 over the last four. I'd lower expectations for Williams that week.

The Bengals come to Cleveland in Week 13. They throw it on 63.7% of their plays, third most in the league. When they do run, 59.9% of those runs go inside, second most. They're allowing 17.9 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 17.3 over the last three.

The Falcons come to Cleveland in Week 14, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. Atlanta runs it on 48.7% of their plays, the sixth most, at 28.7 runs a game, and 54% of those runs go inside. More runs means more tackle chances. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs. I like both Browns linebackers that week.

Pittsburgh Steelers

• Patrick Queen: Queen has the green dot and hasn't missed a snap over the last four games. He has 32 tackles with a 12.2% tackle rate, plus 2.5 sacks and 6 pressures. He had 12 tackles in Week 8 and 10 in Week 7. He's an LB2.
• Payton Wilson: Wilson has played between 88% and 92% of the snaps each week. He's on the field for 78% of third downs and 88% of two-minute snaps. He has 35 tackles with a 14.7% tackle rate, plus 3 TFLs and an interception. He had 10 and 11 tackles in Weeks 5 and 6. He's an LB2/3.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Cincinnati on Sunday night is neutral. The Bengals throw it on 63.7% of their plays, the third most. When they run, 59.9% of those runs go inside, second most. They're allowing 17.9 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers.

Week 11 at Philadelphia is the one I'd avoid. The Eagles throw it on 61% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 79% of the time. They're allowing 14.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, second fewest. If you have a better option than Wilson that week, I'd seek alternates.

The Broncos come to Pittsburgh in Week 12. They run it on 42.8% of their plays and are allowing 17.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the eighth-fewest, but 19.5 over the last four.

The Texans come to Pittsburgh on Sunday night in Week 13. They throw it on 60.7% of their plays and were in 11 personnel on 86.4% of their snaps in Week 9. They're allowing 17.8 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but 19.7 over the last three.

Week 14 at Jacksonville on Monday night is the best matchup of the stretch. The Jaguars run it on 48.9% of their plays, the fifth most, and they've used 13 personnel on 15% to 21% of their snaps. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three.

AFC South

Houston Texans

• Azeez Al-Shaair: Al-Shaair has the green dot. He's played at least 84% of the snaps every week, and at least 96% in three of four games. He has 36 tackles with a 14.6% tackle rate. He had 11 tackles in Week 5 and 9 in each of Weeks 7 and 9. He's an LB2.
• Henry To'oTo'o: To'oTo'o missed Week 5 with an injury and has played between 88% and 99% of the snaps since he returned. He's on the field for 93% of third downs and 97% of base snaps. He plays 79.4% of snaps against 12 personnel but only 60.1% against 11, so his snaps dip against passing teams. He has 21 tackles with an 11% tackle rate and 3 TFLs. He's an LB3 with LB2 weeks against run-heavy offenses.
• Jake Hansen: Hansen played 95% of the snaps in Week 5 with To'oTo'o out. Now that To'oTo'o is back, Hansen is the LB3 and has been under 30% of the snaps in each of the last two games. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Cleveland is neutral. The Browns throw it on 57.9% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 80% of the time. That's where To'oTo'o's snaps drop. When the Browns run, only 45.9% of those runs go inside, 26th in the league. They're allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the ninth-fewest.

The Colts come to Houston on Thursday night in Week 11. They run it on 43.1% of their plays, and 54.7% of those runs go inside, eighth most. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but only 15.5 over the last four, the fifth fewest.

The Ravens come to Houston in Week 12, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. Baltimore runs it on 49.5% of their plays, third most, at 29.4 runs a game, and they use 12 personnel on about 27% of their snaps. That keeps To'oTo'o on the field. They're allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the ninth most. I like both Texans linebackers that week.

Week 13 at Pittsburgh is solid. The Steelers throw it on 61.9% of their plays, but when they run, 57.5% of those runs go inside, the fourth most. They're allowing 19.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three.

Week 14 at Washington is another good one. The Commanders run inside on 63.8% of their carries, the most in the league, and inside runs go straight at the linebackers. They're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs.

Indianapolis Colts

• C.J. Allen: Allen has the green dot going forward. He was inactive in Week 7 with an ankle injury, then played 83% and 100% of the snaps in Weeks 8 and 9 and had 10 tackles in each game. He has 24 tackles with a 15.9% tackle rate, plus 2 TFL and a sack. He does his best work against the run, and more than half of his snaps come on run plays. He's an LB2.
• Akeem Davis-Gaither: Davis-Gaither was inactive in Week 9 but should return this week. He played between 85% and 98% of the snaps in Weeks 5-7 and had 28 tackles with a 15.6% tackle rate over four games. When Allen came back in Week 8, Davis-Gaither dropped to 68%. Allen's dot status won't change, so the question is how the snaps split between them. He's an LB3/4 in deeper leagues where you're starting 4+ linebackers until we see that split.
• Bryce Boettcher: Boettcher got a boost to 72% in Week 9 with Davis-Gaither inactive and had 12 tackles. Davis-Gaither should be back, so I don't think we need to go chasing the box score.
• Austin Ajiake: Ajiake is a situational LB as he's on the field for passing situations. He plays 57% of third downs but only 24% of base snaps. He's been around 20% of the snaps in the last two games. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Dolphins come to Indianapolis in Week 10. They run it on 48% of their plays, the seventh most, and use 21 personnel on about 26% of their snaps, which keeps the Colts in base. Even so, they're only allowing 16 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the fourth fewest, and 14 over the last three, the fewest in the league. I'd lower expectations.

Week 11 at Houston on Thursday night is neutral. The Texans throw it on 60.7% of their plays and were in 11 personnel on 86.4% of their snaps in Week 9. They're allowing 17.8 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but 19.7 over the last three.

The Giants come to Indianapolis in Week 12. They run it on 44% of their plays, with 29 runs a game, and they're allowing 18.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three. That's a good one for Allen.

The Colts are on bye in Week 13.

Week 14 at Philadelphia is the one I'd avoid. The Eagles throw it on 61% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 79% of the time. They're allowing 14.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the second-fewest. If you have a better option than Allen that week, I'd seek alternates.

Jacksonville Jaguars

• Foyesade Oluokun: Oluokun has the green dot. He played 100% and 93% of the snaps in Weeks 5 and 6. He dropped to 72% and 82% in Weeks 8 and 9 because of the blowouts. He has 34 tackles (19 solo) with a 16.9% tackle rate, plus 4 TFL and 2 sacks. He's had at least 7 tackles in every game. He's an LB1/2.
• Ventrell Miller: Miller is an early-down linebacker. He plays 91% of base snaps but only 62.5% in sub packages, and he's on the field for just 37% of third downs and 33% of two-minute snaps. He plays 94.4% of snaps against 13 personnel and 63.8% against 11. He was under 70% in Weeks 8 and 9. He has 18 tackles with a 10.7% tackle rate. He's a deeper-league play where you're starting 5+ linebackers, and only against run-heavy offenses.
• Branson Combs and Jahlani Tavai: Both picked up snaps in the Week 8 and 9 blowouts, between 22% and 28%. They're only injury replacements.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Jaguars play Tennessee twice, at the Titans in Week 10 and at home in Week 12. Tennessee is in 11 personnel on 82% to 96% of their snaps, so Jacksonville will be in nickel, and Miller's snaps will dip. When the Titans run, 57.3% of those runs go inside, the fifth most. They're allowing 18.6 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, and 20.7 over the last three, the sixth most. I like Oluokun in both games.

Week 11 at the Giants is solid. New York runs it on 44% of their plays, with 29 runs a game. They're allowing 18.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three.

Week 13 at Chicago is the best matchup of the stretch. The Bears run it on 47.7% of their plays, the eighth most, at 33.7 runs a game, and they lean on 12 and 13 personnel. That keeps Miller on the field. They're allowing 20.2 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fourth most.

The Steelers come to Jacksonville on Monday night in Week 14. They throw it on 61.9% of their plays, but when they run, 57.5% of those runs go inside, the fourth most. They're allowing 18.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three.

Tennessee Titans

• Anthony Hill: Hill has the green dot and a three-down role. His tackles have gone up every week (5, 9, 12, and 14). That's 40 tackles with a 14.5% tackle rate. He's an LB1/2.
• Cody Barton: Barton played 97% of the snaps in Week 5. Since then, he's been in a rotation with Cedric Gray as the LB2 opposite Hill, at about 54% each week. He has 14 tackles with a 7.9% tackle rate. I'm not interested in playing him.
• Cedric Gray: Gray is the other half of that rotation. He's played between 40% and 56% of the snaps each week. He plays every base snap but only 31% in sub packages and 15% of third downs. He has 21 tackles with a 15.9% tackle rate. It's unclear if the rotation continues after the bye. For now, he's a deeper-league play where you're starting 5+ linebackers, and only against run-heavy offenses.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Titans play Jacksonville twice, at home in Week 10 and on the road in Week 12. The Jaguars run it on 48.9% of their plays, the fifth most, and they've used 13 personnel on 15% to 21% of their snaps. That keeps Tennessee in base, which is where Gray plays. They only run inside 43.7% of the time, 30th in the league. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, and 19.7 over the last three.

Week 11 at Dallas is neutral. The Cowboys throw it on 60% of their plays, but 58.2% of their runs go inside, third most. They're allowing 15.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, third-fewest, but 18 over the last four.

The Commanders come to Tennessee in Week 13. They run inside on 63.8% of their carries, the most in the league, and inside runs go straight at the linebackers. They're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs.

Week 14 at Detroit is the best matchup of the stretch. The Lions lean on 12 and 13 personnel and run inside 55.3% of the time, the sixth most. They're allowing 22.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the fourth most. I like Hill that week.

AFC West

Denver Broncos

• Alex Singleton: Singleton has the green dot and hasn't left the field over the last five games. He has 59 tackles (29 solo) with a 16.9% tackle rate. He had 19 tackles in Week 7 and 14 in Week 8. He also has 2 sacks, 4 TFL and 10 pressures. He's an LB1 every week.
• Justin Strnad: Strnad has played between 72% and 91% of the snaps each week. He plays every base snap, but he's at 75% in sub packages and 74% on third downs. He plays 93% of snaps against 12 personnel and 70.7% against 11. The snaps are there, but the production isn't. He has 25 tackles with an 8.7% tackle rate and 7 missed tackles. He's an LB3/4 in deeper leagues where you're starting 4+ linebackers.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Broncos are on bye in Week 10.

The Raiders come to Denver in Week 11. They use 12 personnel on more than 60% of their snaps in most weeks, which keeps Denver in base. That's good for Strnad, who plays 93% of snaps against 12 personnel. They're allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the eighth most, but only 15.8 over the last four.

Week 12 at Pittsburgh is neutral. The Steelers throw it on 61.9% of their plays, the fifth most. When they run, 57.5% of those runs go inside, the fourth most in the league. They're allowing 18.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three.

The Dolphins come to Denver in Week 13. They run it on 48% of their plays, the seventh most, but they're only allowing 16 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fourth fewest, and 14 over the last three, the fewest in the league. Singleton is still an LB1, but I'd lower expectations. I'm not interested in playing Strand that week.

Week 14 at the Jets is a good matchup. New York runs it on 43.5% of their plays and used 13 personnel on 17% and 21% of their snaps in Weeks 7 and 8. That keeps Denver in base. They're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.3 over the last four. The Jets only run inside 44.3% of the time, 29th in the league, so some of those tackles will go to the edges.

Kansas City Chiefs

• Nick Bolton: Bolton has the green dot and a three-down role. He's had at least 9 tackles in every game over the last four (11, 11, 9 and 12). That's 43 tackles with a 17.6% tackle rate. He's an LB1 every week.
• Drue Tranquill: Tranquill has played between 85% and 100% of the snaps each week. He plays every base snap and every two-minute snap, but he comes off on some third downs, where he's at 73%. He has 37 tackles with a 16% tackle rate, including 13 in Week 9 and 12 in Week 7. He's an LB2.
• Jack Cochrane: Cochrane is a base linebacker. He plays 75% of base snaps but almost never plays in sub packages, and 69% of his snaps come against the run. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Atlanta is solid. The Falcons run it on 48.7% of their plays, the sixth most, at 28.7 runs a game, and 54% of those runs go inside. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers.

The Cardinals come to Kansas City in Week 11. They throw it on 62.9% of their plays, but they also use 13 personnel on 23% to 41% of their snaps, which keeps the Chiefs in base. Arizona is allowing 18.9 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the seventh most.

Week 12 at Buffalo on Thanksgiving is the best matchup of the stretch. The Bills are allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the most in the league, and 23.7 over the last three. They run it on 50.8% of their plays, second most, at 32.6 runs a game. I like both Chiefs linebackers that week.

Week 13 at the Rams is another great one. The Rams are allowing 21.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, second most, and 23.3 over the last four. They've used 13 personnel on about 50% of their snaps over the last three weeks, which keeps Tranquill on the field.

Week 14 at Cincinnati is the toughest of the bunch. The Bengals throw it on 63.7% of their plays, the third most. When they do run, 59.9% of those runs go inside, second most. They're allowing 17.9 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 17.3 over the last three.

Las Vegas Raiders

• Nakobe Dean: Dean has the green dot and hasn't left the field over the last five games. He had 12 tackles in each of Weeks 5 through 8 and 18 in Week 9. That's 66 tackles with a 20.1% tackle rate. He's an LB1 every week.
• Quay Walker: Walker has played between 94% and 100% of the snaps each week. He's on the field for 93% of third downs and every two-minute snap. He has 42 tackles with a 13.1% tackle rate and 4 TFL. He had 12 tackles in Week 7 and 11 in Week 9. He's an LB2/3.
• Tommy Eichenberg: Eichenberg is a base linebacker. He plays every base snap and none in sub packages, and 70% of his snaps come against the run. He's been between 34% and 62% of the snaps in the last three games. He has 21 tackles with a 19.6% tackle rate. He's a deeper-league play where you're starting 5+ linebackers, and only against offenses that keep the Raiders in base.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Seahawks come to Las Vegas in Week 10. They run it on 45.7% of their plays and use 21 personnel on 12% to 18% of their snaps, which keeps Eichenberg on the field. Only 40.7% of their runs go inside, the fewest in the league, so some of those tackles go to the edges. Seattle is allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, but 19.8 over the last four.

Week 11 at Denver is neutral. The Broncos run it on 42.8% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 59% of the time. They're allowing 17.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the eighth-fewest, but 19.5 over the last four.

Week 12 at Cleveland is the toughest of the stretch. The Browns throw it on 57.9% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 80% of the time, which takes Eichenberg off the field. Only 45.9% of their runs go inside, 26th in the league. They're allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the ninth-fewest. Dean is still an LB1.

The Raiders are on bye in Week 13.

The Chargers come to Las Vegas in Week 14. They run it on 45% of their plays and use 21 personnel on about 30% of their snaps, which keeps the Raiders in base. That's a good spot for Eichenberg in deeper leagues. The Chargers only run inside 45.3% of the time, 28th in the league. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.3 over the last three.

Los Angeles Chargers

• Daiyan Henley: Henley should have the green dot back now that the trade to Denver fell through. He was at 72% of the snaps in Week 8 after suffering a shoulder injury, but he returned to the game and played 86% in Week 9. He has 25 tackles with a 12.5% tackle rate and an interception. He had 10 tackles in Week 9. He's an LB2.
• Del'Shawn Phillips: Phillips' snaps have dropped from 79% in Week 6 to 62% in Week 8 and 47% in Week 9. He's mostly an early-down linebacker and is only on the field for 34% of third downs. Half of his snaps come against the run. He has 16 tackles with a 10.8% tackle rate. I'm not interested in playing him.
• Marlowe Wax: Wax went from 5% and 11% of the snaps in Weeks 5 and 6 to 28% and 33% in Weeks 8 and 9. He had 8 tackles in Week 9. Two-thirds of his snaps come against the run. He's a deep dynasty stash.
• Troy Dye: Dye has been between 12% and 16% of the snaps each week, mostly on third downs. He's only worth a look in the event of an injury, and Denzel Perryman could be returning soon.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Baltimore is a good matchup. The Ravens run it on 49.5% of their plays, third most, at 29.4 runs a game, and they use 12 personnel on about 27% of their snaps. That keeps the Chargers in base. Baltimore is allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the ninth most.

The Jets come to Los Angeles in Week 11. They run it on 43.5% of their plays and used 13 personnel on 17% and 21% of their snaps in Weeks 7 and 8. They only run inside 44.3% of the time, 29th in the league. They're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.3 over the last four.

The Patriots come to Los Angeles in Week 12. They run it on 46% of their plays, the 10th most, but they're only allowing 17 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the seventh fewest. They were in 11 personnel on 72.1% of their snaps in Week 9.

Week 13 at Tampa Bay is the best matchup of the stretch. The Buccaneers run it on 52.4% of their plays, the most in the league, and they're allowing 19.8 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, fifth most. I like Henley that week.

Week 14 at Las Vegas is a tougher one. The Raiders use 12 personnel on more than 60% of their snaps in most weeks and only run it on 39.9% of their plays. They're allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the eighth most, but only 15.8 over the last four.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys

• Shemar James: James has the green dot. He's played at least 87% of the snaps in each of the last three games, and he was at 96% and 95% in Weeks 8 and 9. He has 27 tackles (19 solo) with a 10.1% tackle rate. His best game was 9 tackles in Week 8. The role is there, but the tackles haven't been big. He's an LB3 with LB2 weeks in good matchups.
• DeMarvion Overshown: Overshown was inactive in Weeks 5, 6 and 9. When he played in Weeks 7 and 8, he was at 63% and 74%, mostly in sub packages. He's on the field for 81% of the sub snaps but only 16% of base snaps. He has 13 tackles on 97 snaps. He's hard to trust because of the injuries, and I think he's droppable.
• Dee Winters: Winters missed Weeks 7 and 8 and returned at 90% in Week 9 with Overshown inactive. He has 13 tackles on 109 snaps. If Overshown keeps missing time, Winters is the LB2 next to James. He's an LB3/4 in deeper leagues where you're starting 4+ linebackers.
• Jaishawn Barham: Barham was at 80% and 81% in Weeks 5 and 6, then 34%, 18% and 5%. With Overshown back and James wearing the dot, Barham is now working with the outside linebackers. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The 49ers come to Dallas in Week 10, and that's a great matchup. San Francisco runs it on 49% of their plays, the fourth most, at 29.3 runs a game. They use 21 personnel on about 39% of their snaps, which keeps Dallas in base. They're allowing 20.8 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the third most, and 26.3 over the last three, the most in the league. I like James and Winters that week.

The Titans come to Dallas in Week 11. They're in 11 personnel on 82% to 96% of their snaps, so Dallas will be in nickel a lot. When Tennessee runs, 57.3% of those runs go inside, the fifth most. They're allowing 18.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 20.7 over the last three, the sixth most. That's another good one.

The Eagles come to Dallas on Thanksgiving in Week 12. They throw it on 61% of their plays and are in 11 personnel about 79% of the time. They're allowing 14.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the second-fewest. If you have a better option than James that week, I'd seek alternates.

Week 13 at Seattle is neutral. The Seahawks run it on 45.7% of their plays, but only 40.7% of those runs go inside, the fewest in the league. More outside runs means more tackles going to the edges and safeties. They're allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but 19.8 over the last four.

The Cowboys are on bye in Week 14.

New York Giants

• Micah McFadden: McFadden has the green dot with Edmunds out for the year. He's played every snap in Weeks 7 and 9 and had 10 and 9 tackles. He has 19 tackles (15 solo), plus 3 TFL and a sack. He's an LB2.
• Arvell Reese: Reese has played every snap over the last four games. The Giants use him as a pass rusher a lot, and he has 4.5 sacks, 5 TFL and 10 pressures. He has 33 tackles with a 13.1% tackle rate, including 12 in Week 9. He's an LB2 with big-play upside. I love what Reese has done over the last few weeks. He’s decisive and aggressive.
• Tremaine Edmunds: Edmunds had played every snap, but he's now out for the year.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

At this writing, the Giants played the Commanders in Week 10 on Thursday Night Football.

The Jaguars come to New York in Week 11. They run it on 48.9% of their plays, the fifth-most, and they've used 13 personnel on 15% to 21% of their snaps. They only run inside 43.7% of the time, 30th in the league, so some of those tackles go to the edges. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three.

Week 12 at Indianapolis is neutral. The Colts run inside on 54.7% of their carries, the eighth most, but they're only allowing 15.5 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last four, the fifth fewest.

The 49ers come to New York in Week 13, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. San Francisco runs it on 49% of their plays, the fourth most, and uses 21 personnel on about 39% of their snaps. They're allowing 26.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the most in the league. I like both Giants linebackers that week.

Week 14 at Seattle is neutral. The Seahawks run it on 45.7% of their plays, but only 40.7% of those runs go inside, the fewest in the league. They're allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but 19.8 over the last four.

Philadelphia Eagles

• Zack Baun: Baun has the green dot. He played every snap in Weeks 5-8, then dropped to 47% in Week 9 after suffering a back injury. He's expected to return after the bye. He has 40 tackles with a 13.5% tackle rate, plus 2 sacks and 4 TFL. He's an LB2.
• Jeremiah Trotter: Trotter was rotating with Jihaad Campbell and played 36% of the snaps in Weeks 6 and 7. With Campbell hurt, Trotter played 90% and 95% in Weeks 8 and 9 and had 10 tackles in each game. He has 30 tackles with an 18.3% tackle rate. If Campbell stays out, Trotter is an LB3 with LB2 upside.
• Jihaad Campbell: Campbell is hurt and has missed the last two games. When he returns, he'll likely be back in the rotation with Trotter.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Eagles are on bye in Week 10.

The Steelers come to Philadelphia in Week 11. They throw it on 61.9% of their plays, the fifth most, but when they run, 57.5% of those runs go inside, the fourth most. They're allowing 18.3 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, and 19.7 over the last three.

Week 12 at Dallas on Thanksgiving is neutral. The Cowboys throw it on 60% of their plays, but 58.2% of their runs go inside, third most. They're allowing 15.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, third fewest, but 18 over the last four.

Week 13 at Arizona is solid. The Cardinals throw it on 62.9% of their plays, but they use 13 personnel on 23% to 41% of their snaps, which keeps the Eagles in base. They're allowing 18.9 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the seventh most.

The Colts come to Philadelphia in Week 14. They run inside on 54.7% of their carries, the eighth most, but they're only allowing 15.5 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last four, the fifth fewest.

Washington Commanders

• Frankie Luvu: Luvu has the green dot and a three-down role. He has 40 tackles with a 14.1% tackle rate, including 15 in Week 9. He's an LB2.
• Sonny Styles: Styles has played between 87% and 100% of the snaps each week. He's on the field for 95% of third downs and every sub-package snap. He has 47 tackles with a 17.2% tackle rate, and he had 13 tackles in three of the last four games. He's the Commanders linebacker I want, and he's an LB1/2. He’s been a beast.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

As of this writing, the Commanders played the Giants on Thursday night.

The Bengals come to Washington on Monday night in Week 11. They throw it on 63.7% of their plays, the third most. When they run, 59.9% of those runs go inside, second most. They're allowing 17.9 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs.

Week 12 at Arizona is solid. The Cardinals throw it on 62.9% of their plays, but they use 13 personnel on 23% to 41% of their snaps. They're allowing 18.9 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the seventh most.

Week 13 at Tennessee is a good matchup. The Titans are in 11 personnel on 82% to 96% of their snaps, but both Commanders linebackers stay on the field in nickel. When the Titans run, 57.3% of those runs go inside, the fifth most. They're allowing 20.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the sixth most.

The Texans come to Washington in Week 14. They throw it on 60.7% of their plays and were in 11 personnel on 86.4% of their snaps in Week 9. They're allowing 17.8 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but 19.7 over the last three.

NFC North

Chicago Bears

• Devin Bush: Bush doesn't have the green dot, but he's the Bears linebacker I want. He's played at least 96% of the snaps in four of the last five games. He's on the field for 98% of third downs and every base snap. He has 34 tackles (19 solo) over that stretch with a 12.5% tackle rate, plus 4 TFL and a sack. He had 9 tackles in Week 9. He's an LB2 every week.
• T.J. Edwards: Edwards has the dot, but the tackles haven't followed. He looks a step slower off the snap and to the ball. He only played 23 snaps in Week 5 and was inactive in Weeks 6 and 7. He's played every snap since coming back. He has 5 tackles on 122 snaps over the last two games and a 6.2% tackle rate over the last five. I don't think we need to go chasing him because of the dot. He's an LB3/4 in deeper leagues where you're starting 4+ linebackers until the tackles show up.
• D'Marco Jackson: Jackson played between 78% and 100% of the snaps while Edwards was out. With Edwards back, he's back to LB3 and only played one snap in Week 9. He's only an injury replacement.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Bears are on bye in Week 10.

The Saints come to Chicago in Week 11. They throw it on 61.8% of their plays and have been in 11 personnel on 75% or more of their snaps the last three weeks. That puts the Bears in nickel, but they still play two linebackers there, and Bush is on the field for 93% of the sub snaps. The Saints are allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers over the last three, the fifth most. When they do run, 54.3% of those runs go inside. I like Bush that week.

Week 12 at Detroit on Thanksgiving is the best matchup of the stretch. The Lions run it 28.8 times a game, and 55.3% of those runs go inside, the sixth most in the league. They lean on 12 and 13 personnel, which keeps Chicago in base, and Bush plays every base snap. Detroit is allowing 22.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the fourth most. It's also a good week to see if Edwards can turn the dot into tackles.

The Jaguars come to Chicago in Week 13. They run it on 48.9% of their plays, the fifth most, and they've used 13 personnel on 15% to 21% of their snaps in each of the last four games. More runs and heavier personnel mean more tackle chances for the linebackers. Jacksonville is allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three. One thing to watch is that the Jaguars only run inside 43.7% of the time, so some of those tackles will go to the edges.

Week 14 at Miami is the one I'd be careful with. The Dolphins run it on 48% of their plays, the seventh most, but they're only allowing 16 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, fourth fewest, and 14 over the last three, the fewest in the league. Bush is still an LB2, but I'd lower expectations. I'm not interested in playing Edwards that week.

Detroit Lions

• Derrick Barnes: Barnes has the green dot while Campbell is on IR. Campbell's neck injury in Week 8 reshuffled things, and Barnes played 100% of the snaps once Campbell left. He played 98% in Week 9. He's made more plays rushing the passer than tackling. He has 7 pressures, a sack, and 2 TFLs, but only 13 tackles with a 6.6% tackle rate, and just 2 tackles in Week 9. He's an LB3 until the tackles follow the dot.
• Malcolm Rodriguez: Rodriguez was at 31% and 29% of the snaps in Weeks 5 and 8, then jumped to 94% in Week 9 with Campbell out. He had 8 tackles in that game. He's mostly a base linebacker, at 72% of base snaps and 26% in sub packages. He has 16 tackles on 84 snaps with a 19% tackle rate. He looks to be the LB2, but Devin White could return this month. I’m riding the production until the usage tells me otherwise.
• Jack Campbell: Campbell played every snap in Weeks 5 and 7 and had 21 tackles in those two games. He's on IR with a neck injury. He wants to return, and he'd probably get the dot back when he does.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Patriots come to Detroit in Week 10. They run it on 46% of their plays, the 10th most, but they're only allowing 17 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the seventh fewest. They were in 11 personnel on 72.1% of their snaps in Week 9, so Rodriguez's snaps could dip.

The Buccaneers come to Detroit in Week 11, and that's a great matchup. Tampa Bay runs it on 52.4% of their plays, the most in the league, and they leaned on 12 and 13 personnel in Weeks 7 and 8. Heavy personnel keeps Detroit in base, which is where Rodriguez plays. They're allowing 19.8 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fifth most.

The Bears come to Detroit on Thanksgiving in Week 12. Chicago runs it on 47.7% of their plays, the eighth most, at 33.7 runs a game. They're in 12 or 13 personnel on close to half their snaps. They're allowing 20.2 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, fourth most. That's another good one.

Week 13 at Atlanta is solid. The Falcons run it on 48.7% of their plays, the sixth most, and 54% of those runs go inside. They were in 11 personnel on 83.6% of their snaps in Week 9, though. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs.

The Titans come to Detroit in Week 14. They're in 11 personnel on 82% to 96% of their snaps, so Detroit will be in nickel a lot. When they run, 57.3% of those runs go inside, the fifth most. They're allowing 18.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 20.7 over the last three, the sixth most.

Green Bay Packers

• Isaiah McDuffie: McDuffie wore the green dot with Franklin out. He played 100%, 100%, and 95% of the snaps over the last three games and had 30 tackles in that stretch. Over all five games, he has 41 tackles with a 15.4% tackle rate. When Franklin was healthy in Weeks 5 and 6, McDuffie was rotating with Hopper and played 47% and 54% of the snaps. If Franklin returns, McDuffie goes back to that rotation, and I'm not interested in playing him unless you're starting 5+ linebackers. If Franklin misses again, McDuffie keeps the dot and is an LB2.
• Zaire Franklin: Franklin has missed the last three games. He played 93% and 100% of the snaps in Weeks 5 and 6, with 12 tackles. He's expected back at practice this week and could return in Week 10. If he does, he gets the dot back and is an LB2.
• Ty'Ron Hopper: Hopper played 94% and 97% of the snaps in Weeks 7 and 8 with Franklin out. He got hurt in Week 9 and only played 3% of the snaps. He's expected to play in Week 10. He has 2 interceptions and 5 pass breakups, but only 20 tackles with a 9.9% tackle rate. With Franklin back, he's in a rotation with McDuffie, so I'm not interested in playing him.
• Nick Niemann: Niemann played 94% of the snaps in Week 9 because Hopper and McDuffie were both hurt. He had 7 tackles. Both are expected back in Week 10. I wouldn't worry about adding him from the wire. 

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Vikings come to Green Bay in Week 10. They run it on 46% of their plays, the ninth most, but they're only allowing 16.4 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the fifth fewest, and 15.3 over the last three. That's a tough matchup.

The Packers are on bye in Week 11.

Week 12 at the Rams is a great matchup. The Rams are allowing 21.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the second most, and 23.3 over the last four. They've used 13 personnel on about 50% of their snaps over the last three weeks, which keeps Green Bay in base and keeps both linebackers on the field.

Week 13 at New Orleans is solid. The Saints throw it on 61.8% of their plays and have been in 11 personnel on 75% or more of their snaps over the last three weeks. That means a lot of nickel, which hurts whichever linebacker is in the rotation. They're allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, fifth most.

The Bills come to Green Bay in Week 14, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. Buffalo is allowing 21.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the most in the league, and 23.7 over the last three. They run it on 50.8% of their plays, second most, at 32.6 runs a game. They've used 13 personnel on 20% to 39% of their snaps. Whoever has the dot that week is an LB1.

Minnesota Vikings

• Blake Cashman: Cashman has the green dot. He has 43 tackles (24 solo) with an 18.1% tackle rate, including 12 in Weeks 7 and 9. He also has 5 TFLs, 2 sacks, 7 pressures, and 6 pass breakups. He's an LB1.
• Eric Wilson: Wilson has played between 92% and 99% of the snaps each week. The Vikings line him up on the edge on about a third of his snaps, and he's rushed the passer 49 times. He has 10 pressures, 1.5 sacks, and 4 TFLs. He has 26 tackles with an 11% tackle rate, with 11 in Week 8 and 9 in Week 9. He's an LB3, and he's better in big-play scoring.
• Ivan Pace: Pace went up to 27% of the snaps in Week 9, all on early downs, and two-thirds of his snaps come against the run. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Green Bay is the one I'd avoid. The Packers throw it on 63.9% of their plays, the second most, and they're allowing 14.2 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the fewest in the league. Cashman is in concussion protocol and in danger of missing this week. I think Eric Wilson would wear the dot and Ivan Pace would see significant snaps as the LB2. Pace is a waiver add. If Wilson is available, he’s the priority add.

Week 11 at San Francisco is the best matchup of the stretch. The 49ers run it on 49% of their plays, the fourth most, and use 21 personnel on about 39% of their snaps. The Vikings are a base-heavy defense, so both linebackers stay on the field. San Francisco is allowing 26.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the most in the league.

The Falcons come to Minnesota in Week 12. They run it on 48.7% of their plays, the sixth most, and 54% of those runs go inside. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs.

The Panthers come to Minnesota in Week 13. They throw it on 64.2% of their plays, the most in the league, and they're allowing 16.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, sixth fewest. That's a tough one.

Week 14 at New England is neutral. The Patriots run it on 46% of their plays, 10th most, but they're only allowing 17 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, seventh fewest.

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons

• Kendal Daniels: Daniels has the dot. For now. It's up in the air with Deablo's health. When Deablo was healthy in Weeks 5 and 6, Daniels was mostly a run-down linebacker. He was on 30 of 34 run plays in Week 5 but only about half of the pass plays, and he played just 12 of 32 third downs over those two games. Since Deablo got hurt, Daniels has been on the field for all of it. He played 100% of the snaps in Weeks 7 and 8 and 89% in Week 9, including 9 of 10 third downs. He has 47 tackles (32 solo) over the last five games with a 17.7% tackle rate. He's an LB2 with LB1 weeks against heavier offenses, as long as Deablo stays limited. If Deablo gets healthy, Daniels could go back to being a two-down linebacker.
• Harold Perkins: Perkins is a situational LB as he's on the field for passing situations. He plays 75% of third downs and 84% of two-minute snaps, but only 55% of base snaps. He's at 75% against 11 personnel and 36.2% against 12. His snap share went from 85% in Week 7 to 70% in Week 8 and 58% in Week 9. He has 24 tackles and a 12.6% tackle rate over the last five games. He's under 70% of the snaps, so I'm not interested in playing him unless you're starting 5+ linebackers.
• Divine Deablo: Deablo was inactive with an arm injury in Weeks 7 and 8. He's back, but he's wearing a big club cast on his forearm. He started in Week 9 but rotated with Daniels and then sat for most of the fourth quarter. He finished at 54% of the snaps without a tackle. His usage is up in the air at best. He's risky, and I wouldn't worry about adding him from the wire.
• Josh Woods: Woods played 59% of the snaps in Week 6 when Deablo went down. He was down to 20% in Week 7 and 32% in Week 8. He has 8 tackles on 76 snaps. He's only worth a look if Daniels misses time.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Chiefs come to Atlanta in Week 10. They run it on 44.2% of their plays and have been in 12 personnel on about 34% of snaps over the last four weeks. They're allowing 18.5 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, but that drops to 16 over the last four. Heavier personnel and a steady run game are good for Daniels. He plays 90.4% of snaps against 12 personnel, and he was a run-down linebacker when Deablo was healthy. It's bad for Perkins, who's at 36.2% against 12 personnel and is on the field for passing situations.

The Falcons are on bye in Week 11.

Week 12 at Minnesota is a tough one. The Vikings run it on 46% of their plays, the ninth most, but they're still only allowing 16.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fifth fewest, and 15.3 over the last three. They're in 11 personnel about 62% of the time, which is where Daniels' snaps dip to 71.2%. He's still an LB2, but I'd lower expectations.

Week 13 against the Lions is the one I'm circling. Detroit runs it 28.8 times a game, and 55.3% of those runs go inside, the sixth most in the league. That puts the ball right on the linebackers. The Lions are allowing 19 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and that's jumped to 22.3 over the last three, fourth most. They're in 12 personnel about 45% of the time and have used 13 personnel on about 20% of snaps over the last three weeks. Heavy personnel and inside runs are the best setup for Daniels, and I'd start him as an LB1 that week.

Week 14 at Cleveland is a neutral matchup. The Browns throw it on 57.9% of their plays and only run inside 45.9% of the time, 26th in the league. More outside runs means more tackles going to the edge defenders and safeties. They're allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the ninth-fewest, and they're in 11 personnel about 80% of the time. Daniels will probably be in that 70% snap range. Perkins should get more work since he's on the field for passing situations, but not enough for me to trust him outside of deeper leagues.

Carolina Panthers

• Devin Lloyd: Lloyd has the green dot and a three-down role. The Panthers are mostly a two-linebacker defense, and he's on the field for 99% of their sub-package snaps. His only dip was 78% in Week 7, the 43-13 blowout loss to Tampa Bay. The production hasn't matched the role. He has 23 tackles over the last four games with a 9.5% tackle rate. He's an LB2 because of the snaps, but I don't think we need to go chasing the box scores.
• Bobby Okereke: Okereke played at least 90% of the snaps in Weeks 6-8, including 95% of third downs and 99% of sub-package snaps. He was inactive in Week 9. He has 23 tackles (16 solo) over those three games, plus 4 TFLs and a sack. He's been the better fantasy option of the two. When he's healthy, he's an LB2.
• Tyrel Dodson: Dodson played 98% of the snaps in Week 9 with Okereke inactive and had 8 tackles (7 solo). Before that, he only played 13 snaps in Week 7. If Okereke misses any more time, Dodson is the LB to own. Otherwise, he's an injury replacement.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Panthers open at New Orleans in Week 10, and they get the Saints again at home in Week 14. The Saints throw it on 61.8% of their plays and have been in 11 personnel on 75% or more of their snaps the last three weeks. That would normally hurt linebackers, but Lloyd and Okereke play 99% of the sub snaps, so they don't come off the field. When the Saints do run, 54.3% of those runs go inside. They're allowing 18.3 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, and 21.3 over the last three, the fifth most. I like Lloyd and Okereke in both games.

The Ravens come to Carolina in Week 11. They run it on 49.5% of their plays, the third most in the league, and they're allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the ninth most. More runs means more tackle chances for both Panthers linebackers. That's another solid matchup.

Week 12 at Tampa Bay might be the best of the stretch. The Buccaneers run it on 52.4% of their plays, the most in the league, and they're allowing 19.8 tackles/gm to off-ball linebackers, the fifth most.

Week 13 at Minnesota is the one I'd be careful with. The Vikings run it on 46% of their plays, the ninth most, but they're only allowing 16.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fifth fewest, and 15.3 over the last three. The tackles just haven't been there against them. If you have a better option for Lloyd that week, I'd seek alternates.

New Orleans Saints

• Kaden Elliss: Elliss missed Weeks 5 and 6 and has played every snap since he returned. He has the green dot. He has 17 tackles over those two games, including 11 in Week 9, plus 9 pressures and a sack. He's an LB2.
• Pete Werner: Werner has played at least 92% of the snaps every week. The Saints are mostly a two-linebacker defense with Elliss and Werner. He's on the field for 95.5% of third downs and every two-minute snap. He's had at least 8 tackles in every game (10, 11, 8, and 11). That's 40 tackles with a 14.8% tackle rate. He's an LB2.
• Danny Stutsman: Stutsman played 85% and 89% of the snaps in Weeks 5 and 6 with Elliss out. He went back to the bench once Elliss returned and only played 4% in Week 9. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Saints play Carolina twice, at home in Week 10 and on the road in Week 14. The Panthers throw it on 64.2% of their plays, the most in the league. New Orleans plays two linebackers in nickel, so Elliss and Werner stay on the field, but the tackles haven't been there against Carolina. They're allowing 16.6 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the sixth fewest.

Week 11 at Chicago is the best matchup of the stretch. The Bears run it on 47.7% of their plays, the eighth most, at 33.7 runs a game, and lean on 12 and 13 personnel. They're allowing 20.2 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fourth most. I like both Saints linebackers that week.

Week 12 at Cincinnati is neutral. The Bengals throw it on 63.7% of their plays, the third most. When they run, 59.9% of those runs go inside, second most. They're allowing 17.9 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs.

The Packers come to New Orleans in Week 13, and that's the one I'd avoid. Green Bay throws it on 63.9% of their plays and is allowing 14.2 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fewest in the league.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Alex Anzalone: Anzalone has the green dot and a three-down role. The tackles haven't been there. He has 22 tackles with a 7.5% tackle rate over the last several weeks. Where he's made his mark is in coverage, with 4 interceptions and 4 pass breakups over the last five games. He's an LB3, and he's better in big-play scoring.
• Josiah Trotter: Trotter has played between 85% and 100% of the snaps each week. He's on the field for 95% of third downs and every two-minute snap. He has 43 tackles with a 15.1% tackle rate. He had 12 tackles in Week 6 and 10 in Week 7. He's the Buccaneers linebacker I want, and he's an LB2.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Buccaneers are on bye in Week 10.

Week 11 at Detroit is a great matchup. The Lions run it 28.8 times a game, and 55.3% of those runs go inside, the sixth most. They lean on 12 and 13 personnel. They're allowing 22.3 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers over the last three, the fourth most. I like Trotter that week.

The Panthers come to Tampa Bay on Monday night in Week 12. They throw it on 64.2% of their plays, the most in the league, and they're allowing 16.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the sixth fewest. That's a tough one.

The Chargers come to Tampa Bay in Week 13. They run it on 45% of their plays and use 21 personnel on about 30% of their snaps, but they only run inside 45.3% of the time, 28th in the league. They're allowing 18.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.3 over the last three.

Week 14 at Baltimore is solid. The Ravens run it on 49.5% of their plays, third most, at 29.4 runs a game. They're allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the ninth most.

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals

• Mack Wilson: Wilson has the green dot and a three-down role. He's played 100% of the snaps in every game over the last five. He has 33 tackles (12 solo) in that stretch, with a 10.6% tackle rate, 2 TFL and 5 pressures. He's an LB2 every week.
• Jack Gibbens: Gibbens is the one whose usage moves. His snap share has been between 70% and 86% each week. He's on the field for 80% of third downs and 89% of two-minute snaps, so the Cardinals aren't taking him off in passing situations. Where he loses snaps is in sub packages. He plays 82% of base snaps but drops to 71% in nickel and dime. Even so, he has 32 tackles on 238 snaps, a 13.4% tackle rate. That's nearly the same tackle total as Wilson on about 70 fewer snaps. He's a solid LB3 and can be an LB2 in the right matchup.
• Cody Simon: Simon has played 49 snaps over the last five games. Most of his work comes on early downs, with 38 of those 49 snaps there. He picked up 27 base snaps and was on the field for just 10 of 64 third downs. He has 10 tackles and a 20.4% tackle rate over that stretch, but he's nowhere near 70% of the snaps. I wouldn't worry about adding him from the wire.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

The Rams come to Arizona in Week 10. They throw it on 59.9% of their plays, but they're still allowing 21.1 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the second most, and 23.3 over the last four. Part of that is the 13 personnel. The Rams have used it on about 50% of their snaps over the last three weeks, which keeps Arizona in base. Gibbens has played 87.9% of snaps against 13 personnel over the last five games, so he stays on the field even when the Rams throw out of those looks. I like both Cardinals linebackers that week.

Week 11 at Kansas City is a step down. The Chiefs are allowing 18.5 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but only 16 over the last four. They run it on 44.2% of their plays, which is right around league average. They use 12 personnel on about 33% of their snaps, and Gibbens has played 75.7% of snaps against 12 personnel over the last five games.

The Commanders come to Arizona in Week 12. They only run it on 42.3% of their plays, but when they do, 63.8% of those runs go inside, the highest rate in the league. Inside runs go straight at the linebackers, and that's why they're allowing 18.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs. Washington is in 11 personnel about 62% of the time, and that's where Gibbens loses snaps. He's at 73.8% against 11 personnel over the last five games. That's still enough to start him as an LB3 with all those inside runs coming his way.

Week 13 against the Eagles is the one I'd be careful with. They throw it on 61% of their plays and are in 11 personnel 77.5% of the time. More passing means more nickel for Arizona and more tackles going to the defensive backs. The Eagles are allowing 14.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, second fewest. Wilson is fine as an LB2 there. If you have a better option for Gibbens that week, I'd seek alternates.

The Cardinals are on bye in Week 14.

Los Angeles Rams

• Quinton Lake: Lake has the green dot, but he's a safety.
• Nate Landman: Landman isn't hurt, but he lost the green dot to Lake. The Rams are using more zero-linebacker looks and 7+ DB packages, and Landman's snaps have fallen from 99% in Week 6 to 71% in Week 8 and 66% in Week 9. He plays every base snap but only 71% in sub packages and 53% of third downs. He's still making tackles when he's out there. He has 38 tackles with a 19% tackle rate, including 13 in Week 5. He's a deeper-league play where you're starting 5+ linebackers.
• Omar Speights: Speights is a base linebacker. He plays 90% of base snaps but only 18% in sub packages and 10% of third downs. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Arizona is solid. The Cardinals throw it on 62.9% of their plays, but they also use 13 personnel on 23% to 41% of their snaps, which keeps the Rams in base and keeps Landman on the field. Arizona is allowing 18.9 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the seventh most.

The Rams are on bye in Week 11.

The Packers come to Los Angeles in Week 12, and that's the one I'd avoid. Green Bay throws it on 63.9% of their plays, second most, and is in 11 personnel about 65% of the time. That's when the Rams go to their zero-linebacker looks. The Packers are allowing 14.2 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the fewest in the league.

The Chiefs come to Los Angeles on Thursday night in Week 13. They run it on 44.2% of their plays and have been in 12 personnel on about 34% of their snaps over the last four weeks. They're allowing 18.5 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but only 16 over the last four.

Week 14 at San Francisco is the best matchup of the stretch. The 49ers run it on 49% of their plays, the fourth most, and use 21 personnel on about 39% of their snaps. That keeps the Rams in base. San Francisco is allowing 26.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the most in the league. Landman is a solid deeper-league play that week.

San Francisco 49ers

• Fred Warner: Warner has the green dot and hasn't left the field over the last four games. He has 36 tackles with a 15.6% tackle rate and 3 TFLs. He had 13 tackles in Week 7 and 10 in Week 5. He's an LB1.
• Dre Greenlaw: Greenlaw only played 42% of the snaps in Week 5 because he was ejected, and he was suspended for Week 6. He's played 90% and 98% since. He has 23 tackles with an 18% tackle rate, including 12 in Week 7. He's on the field for 76% of third downs. He's an LB2/3.
• Jaden Dugger: Dugger played 75% and 97% of the snaps in Weeks 5 and 6 while Greenlaw was out. He's back in his base role and only played 23% of the snaps in Week 9. The box scores are tempting to chase. I love his long-term potential in dynasty. He might be worth a stash in deeper redraft leagues if you’re playing 5+ LB. In shallow, he’s still an injury replacement.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 at Dallas is neutral. The Cowboys throw it on 60% of their plays, but 58.2% of their runs go inside, third most. They're allowing 15.3 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the third fewest, but 18 over the last four.

The Vikings come to San Francisco in Week 11. They run it on 46% of their plays, but they're only allowing 16.4 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, fifth fewest, and 15.3 over the last three. That's a tough one.

The Seahawks come to San Francisco in Week 12. They run it on 45.7% of their plays, but only 40.7% of those runs go inside, the fewest in the league. More outside runs means more tackles going to the edges and safeties. They're allowing 17.7 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, but 19.8 over the last four.

Week 13 at the Giants is solid. New York runs it on 44% of their plays at 29 runs a game, and they're allowing 18.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three.

The Rams come to San Francisco in Week 14, and that's the best matchup of the stretch. The Rams are allowing 21.1 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the second most, and 23.3 over the last four. They've used 13 personnel on about 50% of their snaps over the last three weeks, which keeps both linebackers on the field.

Seattle Seahawks

• Ernest Jones: Jones has the green dot and hasn't left the field over the last five games. He has 47 tackles with a 16.5% tackle rate and 2 sacks. He had 13 tackles in Week 8 and at least 7 in every game. He's an LB1.
• Drake Thomas: Thomas was inactive in Weeks 6 and 7. He's played between 75% and 84% of the snaps in the other three games. He's mostly an early-down linebacker, on the field for 87% of early downs but only 55% of third downs and 28% of two-minute snaps. He plays 76.7% of snaps against 13 personnel but only 37.8% against 11. He has 16 tackles with an 11.2% tackle rate, and only 4 of those are solo. He's an LB3/4 in deeper leagues where you're starting 4+ linebackers.
• Tyrice Knight: Knight played 86% and 72% of the snaps in Weeks 6 and 7 with Thomas out. He's back on the bench. I'm not interested in playing him.

Looking ahead (Weeks 10-14)

Week 10 in Las Vegas is solid for Thomas. The Raiders use 12 personnel on more than 60% of their snaps in most weeks, which keeps Seattle out of nickel. They're allowing 18.7 tackles/gm to opposing off-ball linebackers, the eighth most, but only 15.8 over the last four.

The Seahawks are on bye in Week 11.

Week 12 at San Francisco is the best matchup of the stretch. The 49ers run it on 49% of their plays, the fourth most, and use 21 personnel on about 39% of their snaps. They're allowing 26.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs over the last three, the most in the league. I like Jones and Thomas that week.

The Cowboys come to Seattle on Monday night in Week 13. They throw it on 60% of their plays, which takes Thomas off the field. When they run, 58.2% of those runs go inside, third most. They're allowing 15.3 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, the third fewest, but 18 over the last four.

The Giants come to Seattle in Week 14. They run it on 44% of their plays at 29 runs a game, and they're allowing 18.6 tackles/gm to off-ball LBs, and 19.7 over the last three.