We have the Patriots as one of the most trustworthy D/ST plays to pay up for, along with a ton of great D/ST value plays. That leaves the rest of the expensive D/ST plays as tournament considerations, but not great plays to pay for in general. Here are some D/ST options I’m fading on the DK main slate:

Bears ($3,600) vs. LAC

We were expecting a lot more from Chicago’s defense this season, but the production just hasn’t been there. Bears D/ST still averages over 10 DKFP thanks to a couple of big games early in the season, but the salary still reflects the expectations. The Chargers have been pretty bad so far, but are at least a capable offense with a veteran QB. With the Bears scoring just 10 DKFP in the last two games combined (OAK/NO), there’s no way we can justify paying this.

Saints ($3,500) vs. ARI

The Saints have been rock solid defensively, scoring 10 or more DKFP in four of the last five. Playing at home against a rookie QB justifies this price tag, but the shootout potential here makes it a fade. Assuming Drew Brees is back, we could see New Orleans adapt a new strategy. That should mean more possessions for the Cardinals, which puts the defense in a worse spot. Some turnovers and sacks should be there, but not enough upside as if Teddy Bridgewater starts.

Eagles ($2,700) at BUF

You’ll see that “25th” next to Eagles D/ST and consider targeting them against a bad Buffalo offense, in what could be a low scoring game. Don’t do it. There are plenty of value defenses on this slate, but the holes in Philly’s secondary are too glaring to trust. Eagles D/ST has scored just one fantasy point in two straight games, allowing 38 and 37 points on the road. A third straight road game against a winning team won’t be kind. Josh Allen’s deep ball is exactly the type of play that can crush Philly.

I am a promoter at DraftKings and am also an avid fan and user (my username is jedlow) and may sometimes play on my personal account in the games that I offer advice on. Although I have expressed my personal view on the games and strategies above, they do not necessarily reflect the view(s) of DraftKings and I may also deploy different players and strategies than what I recommend above. I am not an employee of DraftKings and do not have access to any non-public information.