Fantasy football Week 4: Boone highlights starters and bench options

Justin Boone’s Week 4 fantasy football guide recommends several under-the-radar players to start and identifies potential busts. He suggests Saints rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, who has posted the fourth-most fantasy points among QBs and benefits from a fast-paced offense, as a solid starter against a Falcons defense that ranks 12th in points allowed to passers. Other quarterbacks to consider are Jared Goff, who faces a Panthers defense weakened by injuries to cornerbacks, and Bryce Young, who has a favorable matchup against a Lions secondary that has yielded the most fantasy points to opposing QBs.

At running back, Boone highlights Cardinals rookie Jeremiyah Love after a breakout performance against the 49ers and a favorable game script versus a Giants defense that is among the top ten in points allowed to RBs. He also lists Aaron Jones Sr., Braelon Allen and Jacory Croskey-Merritt as viable starts based on opponent matchups and injury situations.

Wide receiver Matthew Golden of the Packers is noted for his high target share and the Packers’ pass-heavy approach, making him a strong option against Tampa Bay’s pass-focused defense. Additional WR recommendations include Josh Downs, Michael Wilson and Jameson Williams, each facing defenses that have been generous to opposing receivers.

Tight end Juwan Johnson is praised for consistent production and a matchup against a Falcons defense that has allowed three TE touchdowns so far. Kenyon Sadiq and Darren Waller are also mentioned as potential starters depending on health and opponent tendencies.

Boone advises benching Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye after three low-scoring outings, as well as Justin Herbert and Bo Nix, who face tough defensive matchups. At running back, Omarion Hampton, Rhamondre Stevenson and Tony Pollard are flagged as risky options due to limited usage or tough defenses. Wide receivers Emeka Egbuka, Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Rome Odunze and Xavier Worthy are listed as volatile or low-floor choices. Tight end Dalton Schultz is also suggested as a bench player after a decline in target volume.

"Shough is off to an impressive start, posting the fourth-most fantasy points among quarterbacks so far," Boone wrote.

"Johnson has been an excellent late-round selection and an extremely consistent fantasy starter in the opening month," Boone added.

Boone’s rankings aim to help managers maximize points by exploiting favorable matchups and avoiding players with limited upside this week.