NFL Week 9: Experts Offer Upset Picks, Player Projections and Fantasy Sleeper Insights
Analysts forecast potential upsets, player stat lines and fantasy sleeper values for the NFL's Week 9 matchups, highlighting the Packers, Browns, rookie running backs and possible quarterback controversy in Minnesota.
Week 9 of the 2026 NFL season continues after the Jaguars defeated the Ravens on Thursday, and a slate of predictions from ESPN's NFL analysts outlines possible upsets, player performances and fantasy implications.
Betting analyst Pamela Maldonado backs two underdogs to win outright. She favors the Green Bay Packers (+3, +140 moneyline) at New England, citing the Packers' strong defense against deep passes and the Patriots' depleted receiving corps, while still noting quarterback Drake Maye's mobility. Maldonado also picks the Cleveland Browns (+3, 135 moneyline) over the New Orleans Saints, pointing to the Browns' pass rush and the Saints' reliance on the ground game.
Analytics writer Seth Walder projects specific stat lines for three players. He expects Detroit defensive tackle Alim McNeill to record 1.5 sacks, five pressures and a 25 % pass-rush win rate against Miami quarterback Malik Willis. Walder predicts rookie Broncos running back Jonah Coleman to log 15 carries for 79 rushing yards, four receptions for 29 receiving yards and one touchdown against the Carolina Panthers, whose run defense ranks near the bottom of the league. He also forecasts Indianapolis cornerback Sauce Gardner to see 34 coverage snaps, allow two receptions for 17 yards and face Cowboys receiver George Pickens.
Fantasy writer Eric Moody highlights three sleepers. He notes Indianapolis wide receiver Keenan Allen, rostered by 43.6 % of ESPN fantasy managers, as a viable flex option given his steady target volume despite limited touchdowns. Moody also points to Miami quarterback Malik Willis, whose rushing ability has produced high fantasy scores, and New York Giants running back Devin Singletary, who could see increased work against a vulnerable Philadelphia defense.
Analyst Matt Bowen identifies three players likely to score touchdowns. He expects Cincinnati wide receiver Tee Higgins to find the end zone in a pass-heavy offense against a Falcons secondary that frequently employs man-free coverage. He also projects New York Giants rookie wide receiver Malachi Fields to score on a fade route against the Eagles, and San Francisco rookie running back Kaelon Black to add another rushing touchdown against the Raiders, who allow the second-most rushing yards per game.
Finally, analyst Ben Solak offers four additional predictions. He suggests Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz could spark a quarterback-change debate in Minnesota after posting stronger numbers than starter Kyler Murray. Solak also predicts a Chiefs quarterback sneak by backup Justin Fields, anticipates a trade announcement on Sunday tied to a Rams victory over the Commanders, and foresees Vikings backup Joe Milton throwing a 65-yard pass.
These forecasts combine statistical analysis, matchup evaluations and fantasy considerations to guide fans and bettors through the upcoming week of NFL action.