Preseason DFS DraftKings and FanDuel Tiered Top Plays: Aug. 17

Last Updated: 8/17/23 2:00 PM EST

Preseason DFS is a different beast. Unlike the regular season, our main job is to identify players who will get the most playing time. Of course, that’s easier said than done. Our team spends an unhealthy amount of time researching to come up with the Depth Chart Notes and Top Plays (below). For Showdown slates, please be sure to consult Cody Main’s article.

TIER 1

Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Cleveland – DTR szn should be in full swing tonight, as the exciting UCLA rookie is expected to play the entire first half. A true dual threat, Thompson-Robinson has already flashed the ability to put up fantasy points in his first two preseason games, and he will get his biggest sample tonight. He’ll also have the luxury of playing with players higher up on the depth chart than Kellen Mond, who is expected to play the entire second half.

Eagles D/ST, Philadelphia – Per usual on showdown preseason slates, defenses seem like top overall options, especially in cash. The Eagles have one of the deepest defensive units in the league, so even with primarily second- and third-stringers, they should have a chance to shine against a rookie QB and Kellen Mond tonight.

Browns D/ST, Cleveland – Cleveland’s defense doesn’t look as spectacular as Philadelphia’s, but they are still an elite showdown option tonight. Going against Philadelphia backups, they will see plenty of Tanner McKee and Ian Book tonight, who are both sure to be mistake-prone. However, they may also get a quarter or more of Marcus Mariota, who is likely to be less mistake-prone, albeit more likely to take a sack.

TIER 2