DJ Moore Fantasy Week 1 Start or Sit: A Fade at WR40 for Me

DJ Moore's Week 1 Start or Sit Decision: A Conservative Fade at WR40

As DJ Moore takes on a new team, quarterback, and opening day with what might be the most potent single unit in the sport, fantasy analysts are weighing the risks and rewards of starting him. Currently ranked 30th among wide receivers in PFN's Week 1 projections, Moore was ranked lower than the rest of the field for me all summer. Having been skeptical of Moore's potential from the start, I'm actively searching for reasons not to play him, sitting him in the WR40 range for now.

One factor in my decision to fade Moore is his lackluster 2025 season, which was his least efficient yet, joining an offense that, while explosive, has never truly relied on a standout receiver. There will undoubtedly be weeks where Moore's volume allows him to move up in the rankings, and he could work his way into a WR3 value spot. However, I'm not convinced about the quantity or quality of his performance in Week 1.

Moore's deep target rate has historically spiked during seasons led by offensive masterminds, such as 38.8% under Ben Johnson in 2025. If a similar situation arises once again, I might reconsider my stance and rank him as a startable asset. Yet, if the trend doesn't continue, my fade strategy appears to be on point.

Key players on Moore's roster to watch include Khalil Shakir, James Cook, and Dalton Kincaid, all of whom have the potential to impact his production. With Moore's route tree needing to be significantly different from his teammates' to deliver value, I'm not entirely convinced. I'll continue to monitor the situation closely, but for now, I'll be watching from a distance, keeping Moore in the WR40 range until he provides reason to reconsider that position.