Fantasy Football Expert Justin Edwards looks at the current Fantasy Football Defense rankings and projections for Week 5.

“After four full weeks of NFL action, there are a number of surprises in the football landscape, and the fantasy football Defense rankings are reflecting that.”

2024 Fantasy Football Defense Rankings

*As always, the projections and rankings are courtesy of 4for4’s Fantasy Football Defense rankings! 

Fantasy Football D/ST Rankings, Who Should I Add Off Waiver Wires:

The Green Bay Packers were the highest recommended D/ST waiver wire pickup this week.

Analysis

Last week, I recommended adding and starting the Packers’ defense, even though they were facing the high-powered Vikings offense. The decision paid off decently, with the Packers scoring seven fantasy points despite being without their star cornerback Jaire Alexander.

This wasn’t an isolated success for Green Bay’s defense, as they also put up seven fantasy points in Week 1, despite facing a tough Eagles offense that was firing on all cylinders with a healthy lineup.

In their other two matchups, the Packers’ defense delivered even more impressive performances, dismantling the Colts and Titans for double-digit fantasy days. Through four weeks, Green Bay has demonstrated an appealing combination of floor and ceiling in fantasy, consistently putting up points in both challenging and favorable matchups.

Outside of the dominant Vikings defense, the Packers have been one of the most reliable and versatile D/ST options in fantasy football. Given their steady production, they should be rostered in all leagues, as they have proven to be a defense capable of delivering in various game scripts.

Read Matt Okada’s full Week 5 Waiver Wire Watch

What is another Matchup to Exploit in the Fantasy Football Defense Rankings?

The Denver Broncos stick out with a positive matchup during Week 5. 

Analysis

The Las Vegas Raiders’ offensive struggles took a significant hit coming out of Week 4. Already ranked among the bottom six teams in both adjusted sack rate (10.0%) and adjusted line yards (3.57), the Raiders were dealt further bad news.

Star wide receiver Davante Adams reportedly requested a trade, adding to the turbulence, while starting right guard Dylan Parham suffered an Achilles injury that may impact his availability for Week 5. Adams, who missed Week 4 due to a hamstring injury, is obviously the more crucial offensive weapon, but losing Parham further weakens an offensive line that has already been struggling mightily through the first month of the season.

With their pass protection and run-blocking already in shambles, the Raiders can ill afford to face more obstacles. The potential loss of both Adams and Parham leaves the offense in a precarious position, especially for fantasy purposes.

As a result, fantasy managers should avoid starting any Raiders players other than tight end Brock Bowers, as the offense is likely to be highly inefficient. On the defensive side of the ball, the Denver Broncos’ defense should be a strong streaming option for Week 5, given the Raiders’ vulnerabilities and uncertainty on offense.

*Read Justin Edwards’ full O-Line Rankings and Matchups to Exploit: Week 5*

Who are some Week 5 Fantasy Defenses to avoid?

Some options who have fallen out of the top-20 Fantasy Football Defense Rankings include: the Houston Texans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants.

For more advice on who to start check out the Fantasy Football DST Rankings Week 5.