Fantasy Football: 4 Unexpectedly Great Week 3 Performances

Chris Thompson, RB, Washington

NFL.com Start Percentage: 16.8%

Week 3 Fantasy Points: 24.8

In Week 2, Chris Thompson scored almost 23 fantasy points but was started in just 1.5 percent of NFL.com fantasy leagues. In Week 3, he scored almost 25 fantasy points but was started in less than 17 percent of leagues.

Upshot: he scores lots of points and nobody starts him.

Last week, I noted that Thompson had "a solid and predictable role," but wondered if he could sustain double-digit point production. Well, he did. Thompson dismantled the Oakland Raiders defense, racking up 188 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown. His 8 rushing attempts were a big-time number for him -- in 38 career games, he's only had more than 8 carries on two occasions. He showed well on the ground (4.75 yards per attempt) but left a larger mark in the passing game, corralling 6 of his team-high 7 targets for 150 yards and a score.

What can we expect going forward? Thompson is averaging over 6 targets per game and is tied for the team lead (19) in that category. At this point, it's safe to say he's an integral part of Washington's offense. Twenty-plus-point out bursts may not be the norm, but he's the RB3 in NFL.com scoring and looks like a solid option for your flex spot.