As the fantasy football season glides into week [insert appropriate week number], the stakes become even higher for managers seeking to solidify their standing in leagues. Lineup decisions can make or break your week, and navigating injuries, matchups, and player performance under pressure is vital. Here’s a rundown of some players you should consider starting or sitting this week.
Star Players to Start
Quarterbacks
1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)
Why sit a player who’s consistently a top performer? Mahomes is facing a defense that struggles against the pass, making him a must-start this week. Expect big numbers, especially if his receiving corps stays healthy.
2. Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles)
Coming off a strong performance, Hurts has been electric, both through the air and on the ground. Facing a softer secondary, he’s likely to put up great fantasy points by utilizing his dual-threat ability.
Running Backs
1. Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers)
Ekeler is an integral part of the Chargers’ offense and is set for a big game against a defense that has had trouble stopping running backs in both the rush and pass games. If you have Ekeler, start him.
2. Kenneth Gainwell (Philadelphia Eagles)
As the lead back in a potent offense, Gainwell has the opportunity to shine against a team with a struggling defensive line. If you need a flex option, consider Gainwell this week.
Wide Receivers
1. Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins)
Hill has been unstoppable this season, and with a favorable matchup coming up, it’s hard to bench him. His explosiveness could easily translate into a multi-touchdown game.
2. A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles)
Brown has been a target machine and is set to make big plays against a vulnerable secondary. He’s a WR1 no matter the matchup, and this week is no exception.
Tight Ends
1. Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs)
Any doubts should be put to rest: Kelce is the top tight end in fantasy football. If you have him, you must start him, especially in favorable matchups like this week’s.
2. Dallas Goedert (Philadelphia Eagles)
As Hurts’ security blanket, Goedert has a chance to exploit defensive lapses in the midfield. He’s solid as a starting tight end this week.
Players to Sit
Quarterbacks
1. Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings)
While Cousins has had his moments, this week he faces a stout defense. You might want to look for a safer option rather than roll with Cousins against a formidable secondary.
2. Baker Mayfield (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Mayfield has shown flashes but is up against a defense that thrives on pressure. Unless it’s a deep bye week or injury crisis, it’s wise to look elsewhere.
Running Backs
1. Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Steelers’ offensive line has struggled, and Harris has not been productive this season. He’s better left on the bench until he shows he can turn things around.
2. Damien Harris (Buffalo Bills)
With the Bills’ backfield becoming increasingly crowded, it’s hard to rely on Damien as a starter. Look for a better option or a player who has a clearer path to volume.
Wide Receivers
1. Michael Pittman Jr. (Indianapolis Colts)
While he has talent, the uncertainty at quarterback and a tough matchup make Pittman a risky start this week. Consider searching for a higher-upside WR option.
2. Adam Thielen (Carolina Panthers)
Thielen’s production has waned, and with the QB situation in flux for Carolina, it’s best to leave him on the bench in favor of more reliable targets.
Tight Ends
1. Hunter Henry (New England Patriots)
Despite flashes of potential, Henry’s inconsistency and a challenging matchup make him a low-priority option. There are likely better streaming tight ends available this week.
2. Cole Kmet (Chicago Bears)
Kmet has struggled to find the end zone and is facing a strong defense. It’s more prudent to look for a reliable option rather than risk it with Kmet.
Final Thoughts
Fantasy football can be unpredictable, and every week brings new challenges. Keeping a pulse on player performance and matchup nuances is critical for making informed decisions. Make sure to monitor injury reports leading up to kickoff, and don’t hesitate to adjust your lineup based on the latest news.
Remember, the goal is to put forth the best lineup possible, so trust your instincts and don’t put off difficult decisions until the last moment. Good luck this week, fantasy managers—may your fantasy team emerge victorious!