The 2025 fantasy football season is intensifying, with wins and losses becoming crucial for playoff aspirations. Fantasy managers seek every possible advantage to improve their teams. Recently, NFL.com analyst Matt Okada provided a bold prediction that has piqued the interest of many fantasy football managers.
Kyle Monangai: The Rising Star for Fantasy Managers
Okada recommends that fantasy managers start Chicago Bears rookie running back Kyle Monangai in Week 9. A standout performance is anticipated, especially following an injury ruling D’Andre Swift out for the game.
Injury Insights and Statistics
Swift, who had been in excellent form, was expected to excel against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals have allowed 15 or more fantasy points to 11 running backs over their first eight games. Additionally, they granted over 30 fantasy points to both Josh Jacobs and Breece Hall in recent weeks.
According to Okada, with Swift sidelined, he projects Monangai will accumulate 25 fantasy points in this matchup. This increased spotlight could be a golden opportunity for Monangai managers, who are eager to see how he performs.
Monangai’s Potential Performance
Despite only having 42 career carries, Monangai’s potential has caught the eye of fans and analysts alike. He has yet to serve as the primary running back for an entire game, which raises questions about how he will handle increased responsibilities. Nevertheless, his ability to gain strength as the game progresses could work in his favor.
Projected Stat Line for Week 9
Okada provides a potential stat line for Monangai, predicting:
- 18 carries: 85 rushing yards
- 4 receptions: 30 receiving yards
- 1 rushing touchdown
With this projection, fantasy managers are encouraged to lock Monangai into their starting lineups. His performance could very well be the key to victory in this pivotal week.
