Week 9 Fantasy Football IDP: 5 Defensive Back Sleepers

Smith luckily faces a struggling NY offense this week that turned the ball over six times last week and ended up in QB Geno Smith losing his job. The cornerback has averaged a decent four tackles over the last four contests, but his true value this week comes from the fact that he could easily get his hands on a pick.

Week 9 Matchup: (vs. NYJ)

The departure of Mark Barron will put even more pressure on Goldson to make plays in the secondary. He has racked up six ore more tackles in four of the past five games and should have a bog game this week as the team tries to test out Barron's replacement.

Week 9 Matchup: (@ CLE)

Despite all the big names in San Fran, Bethea is quietly leading the team with 37 tackles. He is one of the soundest tacklers in the game and will get plenty of chances to make tackles against a St. Louis team that loves to run the ball. Look for Bethea to easily finish with six hits in Week 9.

Week 9 Matchup: (vs. STL)

Nelson is shockingly leading the Bengals with 50 tackles. He has also added two interceptions, four passes defensed and 1.5 sacks this season. He has matured into a reliable week-to-week starter and should have a huge game against the turnover happy Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday.

Week 9 Matchup: (vs. JAC)

Barron was the biggest name to change teams at the trade deadline and the move instantly increases his fantasy value. The former first round pick has struggled to fill the box score in Lovie Smith’s defense, but he will shine with a Rams team that desperately needs sound tackling in their secondary.

Week 9 Matchup: (@ SF)