Blog · Week 9 · November 3, 2026
Should you start Deshaun Watson in Week 9?
Deshaun Watson is a streaming candidate or deep-league starter for Week 9. While his consistency has been shaky, his ability to contribute through the air and on the ground offers a decent floor against a neutral defense.
Current performance and context
Deshaun Watson enters Week 9 averaging 15.1 pts per game in the 2026 season, totaling 121 pts through 8 games. In his most recent outing against Pittsburgh, he recorded 11.2 pts, including 324 passing yards and 1 fumble. Previously, in Week 7 against Tennessee, he showed his potential with 19.2 pts, combining 308 passing yards and a rushing touchdown. Despite the volatility seen in recent weeks, where his scores ranged from 9.5 to 19.2 pts, Watson remains the active starter looking for consistency. His ability to accumulate yardage keeps him relevant, even if his touchdown production has been inconsistent throughout the current campaign.
Week 9 matchup analysis
For Week 9, Watson faces New Orleans in a MATCHUP NEUTRAL. The Saints defense ranks 17th in the league, allowing 17.8 pts per game to opposing quarterbacks. This scenario is favorable for meeting our FX model projection of 18.1 pts. While he is not an elite option, his status as the QB13 for the week makes him a competitive alternative if your primary quarterback is on a bye or facing a tough defensive matchup. Watson’s floor is supported by his volume, providing a safer outlook than most backup options available in standard fantasy formats.
Expert outlook
Technically, Watson is a viable play for managers needing a spot start. His projected 18.1 pts for this week is higher than his season average, suggesting a potential rebound. Success will depend on his ability to protect the football and minimize turnovers that have plagued his recent performances. Maintain moderate expectations; Watson is not a guaranteed league-winner, but his role as a starter provides enough volume to avoid a total bust. He remains a high-end QB2 or a low-end QB1 depending on the depth of your league and the availability of other streaming options this week.
Fantasy advice
FLEX · In PPR, Half PPR, and Standard leagues, Deshaun Watson is a FLEX-worthy streaming option for Week 9. With a projection of 18.1 pts, he is a solid play if you are dealing with bye weeks or poor matchups for your primary QB. He is not a must-start, but his MATCHUP NEUTRAL status gives him a decent ceiling. If you have a more consistent starter, stick with them, but Watson is a reliable emergency option for your lineup this week.
Projection from the FX Model, Fantasy Expertos' own system.
FAQ
Should I start Deshaun Watson this week?
He is a viable starter in deep leagues or as a streamer, given his matchup against a neutral defensive unit.
What is Watson's projection for Week 9?
Our FX model projects 18.1 pts, ranking him as the QB13 for the week.
How is the matchup against New Orleans?
It is a MATCHUP NEUTRAL, as the Saints defense allows 17.8 pts per game to opposing quarterbacks.