Alright, fantasy football fanatics! It’s Week 5 of the 2025 NFL season, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably staring at your roster, second-guessing every decision you’ve ever made. We all know that feeling – that gnawing anxiety that your kicker, of all people, is going to be the reason you lose. Yeah, kickers. The unsung heroes (or goats) of our fantasy teams.

That’s why we’re here. You’ve got lineup dilemmas, and we’re going to try our best to give you some answers. We’re diving deep into the murky waters of kicker selection to help you make those crucial start/sit decisions. Forget the obvious (like, yeah, Puka Nacua is a must-start, duh!). We’re talking about the borderline calls, the guys who could either win you the week or send you spiraling into a pit of despair. And if you’re hunting for a specific player not mentioned here, be sure to peep the latest NFL Fantasy lineup rankings for a broader perspective.

So, buckle up, buttercup! Let’s get into the kickers I’m feeling particularly strong about this week – for better or for worse.

(Quick Disclaimer: Fantasy football is unpredictable. I’m just a dude with opinions. Don’t yell at me if your kicker goes 0-for-3.)

Start ‘Em: These Legs are Made for Kicking (and That’s Just What They’ll Do)

Okay, listen up. If you have any of these guys on your roster, you should feel pretty good about slotting them into your lineup this week.

1. Brandon Aubrey (DAL) at New York Jets (NYJ)

[Image of Brandon Aubrey]

Okay, Aubrey is money. The Cowboys’ offense is humming, and that means plenty of opportunities for field goals. Even against the Jets’ decent defense, I expect Dallas to move the ball and stall out just enough to give Aubrey some juicy attempts. The Jets’ offense can’t get anything going, so the Cowboys defense will be on the field a lot which increases the chances of getting the ball back and more scoring opportunities for Aubrey.

2. Chase McLaughlin (TB) at Seattle Seahawks (SEA)

[Image of Chase McLaughlin]

Tampa Bay’s offense has been surprisingly competent, and McLaughlin has been a beneficiary. The Seahawks’ defense can be stingy, but I foresee Tampa Bay moving the ball enough to warrant some kicking opportunities. The weather in Seattle can be a factor, so keep an eye on the forecast, but McLaughlin is generally a reliable option.

3. Harrison Butker (KC) at Jacksonville Jaguars (JAX)

[Image of Harrison Butker]

It’s Harrison Butker. Enough said, right? He’s tied to Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ explosive offense. Even on the road against a tough Jaguars squad, Butker should get his chances. Jacksonville can score, but the Chiefs’ defense should keep it close which will increase the chances for Butker.

4. Spencer Shrader (LAR) vs. Las Vegas Raiders (LV)

[Image of Spencer Shrader]

He’s been doing a solid job for the Rams. The Raiders are still trying to find themselves and could provide plenty of opportunities for Shrader to add to the score.

5. Jake Bates (DET) at Cincinnati Bengals (CIN)

[Image of Jake Bates]

Bates is a rising star with a powerful leg, playing for an offense that knows how to get into scoring range. The Bengals’ defense is respectable, but Detroit is too good to be shut down completely. Bates has the potential for a big week.

6. Jason Myers (SEA) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB)

[Image of Jason Myers]

Myers at home is generally a good play. He’s consistent, and the Seahawks’ offense is capable of driving into field goal range. Tampa Bay has a decent defense, but Seattle should get enough chances to put Myers in a position to score.

7. Cameron Dicker (LAC) vs. Washington Commanders (WAS)

[Image of Cameron Dicker]

Dicker has been a reliable fantasy asset. The Chargers’ offense, led by Justin Herbert, is dynamic and can move the ball against anyone. Washington’s defense is improving, but I expect the Chargers to generate enough scoring opportunities for Dicker to be a valuable play.

8. Matt Prater (ARI) vs. New England Patriots (NE)