Fantasy Football: Navigating the Playoffs with Strategic Moves
Hey there, fantasy football enthusiasts! It’s that time of the year again when the stakes are high, and every decision could make or break your season. As Eric Moody from ESPN reminds us, the NFL is a “next man up” league, and by extension, so is your fantasy football league. You might have drafted your team with precision, but it’s the in-season moves that truly determine if you’re on the path to glory or already planning for next year.
For those of you still in the playoff hunt, or even if you’re just trying to dodge that dreaded last-place punishment, I’ve got some insights to help you out. Let’s dive into the performances and potential pickups that could be game-changers for your fantasy roster.
Last Sunday was a rollercoaster of emotions for fantasy managers. We witnessed some stellar performances from players like Jonathan Taylor, Justin Jefferson, and Jayden Daniels, among others. On the flip side, some big names like Josh Allen and Cooper Kupp didn’t quite meet expectations, leaving some managers in a bind.
Injuries are always a concern, and this week was no different. Drake London suffered a hamstring injury, Kenneth Walker III is dealing with an ankle issue, and Jalen Hurts was ruled out with a concussion. But perhaps the most impactful injury was to James Conner, who went down with an ankle injury. With 47% of playoff teams in ESPN leagues having him on their roster, this is a significant blow.
So, what should you do if Conner can’t suit up for the upcoming game against the Rams? Well, Trey Benson is the primary backup, but he was inactive last week due to his own ankle injury. This leaves Michael Carter as a potential fill-in, though he’s only rostered in 0.1% of leagues. Keep an eye on the injury reports as the week progresses.
Next RBs up
- Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints (47.6%): With Alvin Kamara dealing with a groin injury, Miller is poised to take on a larger role. The Saints face the Packers next, giving you a chance to see what Miller can do.
- Alexander Mattison (47.4%) and Ameer Abdullah (23.7%), Las Vegas Raiders: With Sincere McCormick on IR, Mattison and Abdullah are sharing the workload. Both are viable flex options, especially against a generous Saints defense.
- Gus Edwards (52.5%), Los Angeles Chargers: Edwards is part of a committee but still managed 15 touches and 20.1 fantasy points last week. With favorable matchups against the Patriots and Raiders, he’s worth considering.
Next QBs up
- Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears (44.0%): Williams is making history as the first Bears rookie QB to throw for over 3,000 yards. With a favorable matchup against the Seahawks, he could be a great option for Week 17.
- Drake Maye, New England Patriots (20.5%): Maye has been consistent, and with a matchup against a struggling Chargers defense, he could be in for another solid performance.
- Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (4.9%): Young is coming off a season-high performance and faces a Buccaneers defense that has been generous to QBs. He’s a strong streaming option.
Next WRs up
- Jalen McMillan, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (33.1%): McMillan has stepped up as the Bucs’ No. 2 WR and has favorable matchups to close out the season. He’s a must-add if you need a receiver.
- Rashod Bateman, Baltimore Ravens (22.3%): Bateman is having a career year and faces a Texans defense that struggles against WRs. Expect a bounce-back game.
- Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers (42.3%): Doubs has been consistent and has favorable matchups against the Vikings and Bears. He’s a solid option moving forward.
Next TEs up
- Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans (44.2%): With injuries to the Texans’ TE group, Schultz is in a prime spot to step up, especially against a Ravens defense that struggles against TEs.
- Chig Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans (6.4%): Okonkwo is coming off a breakout game and has a favorable matchup against the Jaguars. He’s a solid option if you’re in need of a TE.
Originally Written by: Eric Moody
