Fantasy football managers preparing for Week 9 matchups should consider benching several kickers facing difficult matchups or unfavorable game scripts, according to fantasy analysts. Chicago Bears kicker Cairo Santos and Philadelphia Eagles kicker Jake Elliott headline a list of five specialists recommended for the bench this week.
Santos, photographed celebrating a field goal with tight end Cole Kmet during the Bears' game against the New York Jets at Soldier Field on October 4, faces a challenging Week 9 environment. The Bears' offensive struggles and unpredictable red-zone efficiency make Santos a risky start despite his veteran reliability.
Elliott joins Santos as a must-sit candidate alongside three other kickers whose matchups, weather conditions, or team offensive trends suggest limited scoring opportunities. Fantasy managers are advised to explore waiver-wire alternatives or stream kickers from high-powered offenses playing in favorable conditions.
The Week 9 slate features several games with projected low totals or inclement weather forecasts, further depressing kicker ceilings. Analysts emphasize monitoring injury reports and Saturday practice participation for late-breaking changes that could alter kicking opportunities.
