Christmas football is back with a three-game NFL triple-header — Cowboys at Commanders, Lions at Vikings, Broncos at Chiefs — so fantasy managers need to be ready for a busy holiday slate. Below, I’ll explain who you can trust in your lineups, who should stay on the bench, and which players fall into that tricky gray area for Thursday night.
Lock Them into Your Lineup
- Dak Prescott QB (DAL)
- Jahmyr Gibbs RB (DET)
- Javonte Williams RB (DAL)
- Amon-Ra St. Brown WR (DET)
- Jameson Williams WR (DET)
- CeeDee Lamb WR (DAL)
- George Pickens WR (DAL)
Quarterbacks to Start
Bo Nix (DEN)
Bo Nix has quietly been one of the most productive quarterbacks in fantasy football, currently sitting as a top-eight option in points per game. While his season has had volatility, his overall play has improved significantly since Week 11. Over that stretch, Nix ranks near the top of the league in passing yards per game and has shown improved efficiency with his accuracy and ball placement. He has now thrown for at least 295 yards in four of his last five games, including a career-high 352-yard performance last week. The lack of touchdowns has capped his fantasy ceiling recently, but the volume has been undeniable. Drops and missed scoring opportunities have also kept his box scores from fully reflecting his performance. From a process standpoint, Nix is playing at a level that supports continued QB1 production.
From a matchup perspective, Nix profiles as a strong fantasy football start in Week 17 despite the reputation of the Chiefs’ defense. Kansas City has allowed solid quarterback efficiency metrics over the last month and just gave up multiple touchdowns to Cam Ward last week. With the Chiefs dealing with injuries in the secondary, the coverage unit is far more vulnerable than earlier in the season. The game script should also work in Nix’s favor, as Denver remains aggressive through the air regardless of score. Even if the Broncos control the game, Nix’s passing volume should remain intact. The combination of recent form and defensive injuries makes him a high-upside start. Fantasy football managers should feel comfortable starting Nix as a low-end QB1.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Jared Goff (DET)
Jared Goff enters Week 17 playing some of the best football of his season, ranking as the QB9 in fantasy points per game. Over the last several weeks, he has delivered multiple multi-touchdown performances and has consistently topped 300 passing yards. Goff ranks near the top of the league in passing yards per game and highly accurate throw rate, highlighting his efficiency. He has thrown at least two touchdown passes in four of his last five games and is coming off back-to-back three-touchdown outings. His chemistry with Detroit’s pass catchers has remained strong despite injuries around him. When the Lions are forced to keep pace offensively, Goff has delivered reliable fantasy production. However, his fantasy value has often been tied closely to game script and matchup rather than pure volume.
This week’s matchup makes Goff a difficult fantasy football start on Thursday night against Minnesota. The Vikings have been the most dominant pass defense in the league over the last month, allowing zero passing touchdowns since Week 11. During that stretch, opposing quarterbacks have consistently been held well below their fantasy averages. Minnesota has limited yards, efficiency, and scoring opportunities at an elite level regardless of opponent. Detroit is favored in this matchup, which increases the likelihood of a run-heavy approach featuring Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Goff has also historically struggled in Minnesota, averaging significantly fewer fantasy points there compared to home games. Even an efficient real-life performance could fall short in fantasy terms. Given the defensive dominance and potential game script, Goff should be viewed as a sit outside of Superflex and two-quarterback leagues.
Other Quarterbacks to Sit
- Max Brosmer (MIN)
- Josh Johnson (WAS)
- Chris Oladokun (KC)
Running Backs to Start
Aaron Jones (MIN)
Aaron Jones has not been an efficiency standout late in the season, but his workload profile still supports fantasy football relevance. Since Week 14, Jones has averaged 17.4 touches per game while accounting for the majority of Minnesota’s running back usage. His per-touch efficiency metrics have dipped, including an 11 percent missed tackle rate and just 1.68 yards after contact per attempt, but volume continues to drive his fantasy output. Jones has remained on the field in high-leverage situations, including third downs and two-minute offense. With Mason averaging nearly 10 carries per game before missing this contest, Jones now projects for a meaningful uptick in opportunity. Zavier Scott has operated as a rotational change-of-pace option, but his workload has not threatened Jones’ lead role. Even within a below-average rushing offense, Jones continues to command usage that keeps him viable.
Jones profiles as a start in Week 17 against a Detroit run defense that has regressed significantly over the second half of the season. Since Week 12, the Lions have allowed the fifth-most rushing yards per game and rank bottom third in rushing success rate allowed. Detroit has also struggled with tackling, allowing a top-10 missed tackle rate and significant yards before contact. Minnesota projects Jones for a 60 to 70 percent share of the backfield touches, which is more than enough to generate RB2 value. His receiving role further stabilizes his floor, as he averages three targets per game with consistent route participation. Even if Minnesota falls behind, Jones remains involved through the air. The matchup does not demand elite efficiency for fantasy success. Jones should be started confidently as a volume-based RB2.
RJ Harvey (DEN)
RJ Harvey has developed into one of the most valuable late-season fantasy football running backs after taking over Denver’s backfield following the loss of J.K. Dobbins. Since Week 11, Harvey ranks as the RB11 in fantasy points per game, averaging 16.6 touches and nearly 80 total yards per contest. His production has been driven by consistent volume rather than elite efficiency, as his explosive run rate and missed tackle numbers sit closer to league average. Despite that, Harvey has made the most of his opportunities, scoring five touchdowns during that stretch and seeing steady red-zone usage. Over his last four games, Harvey has produced three performances of at least 21 fantasy points, showing legitimate ceiling outcomes. He has also remained involved as a receiver, totaling 13 receptions for 123 yards during that span. Denver has clearly committed to Harvey as their lead back, removing weekly workload uncertainty.
From a matchup perspective, Harvey remains a start in Week 17 despite facing a Kansas City run defense that grades well in efficiency metrics. Since Week 12, the Chiefs have experienced limited success in rushing, with reduced rates of yards after contact; however, they have still allowed volume-based fantasy production. Kansas City’s defensive effort has dipped recently, particularly with playoff contention no longer a factor, as evidenced by last week’s 100-yard performance by Tony Pollard. Denver, on the other hand, is still playing meaningful games and has no incentive to scale back Harvey’s usage. His role near the goal line provides strong touchdown equity regardless of the matchup. Even if efficiency is capped, Harvey’s projected workload keeps him fantasy viable. He should be started confidently as an RB2 with upside.
Chris Rodriguez (WAS)
Chris Rodriguez has quietly carved out a meaningful role in Washington’s offense and continues to trend upward in fantasy football value. In Week 16, Rodriguez led the Commanders’ backfield with a 56.9 percent snap rate while handling 16 total touches. He also accounted for 50 percent of the team’s red-zone running back opportunities, converting one into a touchdown. Among 59 qualifying running backs, Rodriguez ranks first in yards after contact per attempt, underscoring his physical running style. Over the last five games, he has consistently earned double-digit carries, providing a stable workload floor. His role as the primary early-down runner has remained intact even in negative game scripts. That consistency has translated into steady RB3-level fantasy production.
Rodriguez profiles as a start in Week 17 due to a highly favorable matchup against Dallas. Since Week 12, the Cowboys have allowed the highest rushing touchdown rate in the league and rank bottom five in explosive run rate allowed. Dallas has also struggled with missed tackles, particularly along the interior defensive line. Injuries to key defensive personnel have further weakened their ability to stop the run. Washington is expected to lean on the ground game regardless of the quarterback situation. Rodriguez’s red-zone usage gives him a strong RB2 profile entering championship weekend. Even modest yardage totals can translate into strong fantasy returns in this matchup. He should be started as a volume-driven play with RB2 upside if he can find the end zone.
Running Backs to Sit
David Montgomery (DET)
David Montgomery’s fantasy football value has deteriorated rapidly over the last month as his role in Detroit’s offense has continued to shrink. His snap share has declined in four consecutive games, falling from over 38 percent to just 17.6 percent in Week 16. In that contest, Montgomery recorded only four carries for 14 yards, marking his lowest usage of the season. His season-long averages now sit at 12.3 carries and 48.7 rushing yards per game, resulting in just 8.9 PPR points per outing. Jahmyr Gibbs has fully overtaken the backfield, leaving Montgomery with limited standalone value. Montgomery has become heavily dependent on extreme positive game scripts to see meaningful work. Even in those scenarios, his touch counts have failed to rebound.
Montgomery is a clear sit in Week 17 against Minnesota. The Vikings have been above average this season at limiting running back production, only allowing 19.3 PPG. While Montgomery has had success against Minnesota in the past, the situation is much different with his decreased role. Detroit is unlikely to prioritize Montgomery’s usage in a must-win game when they have Jahmyr Gibbs. His recent illness further complicates his availability and effectiveness. Without passing-game involvement, his fantasy floor is dangerously low. There is no reliable path to volume or scoring. Montgomery should remain on fantasy benches in all formats.
Isiah Pacheco (KC)
Isiah Pacheco handled lead-back duties in Week 16, but his efficiency remained concerning. He finished with modest yardage despite a strong snap and route share. Pacheco’s explosive run rate and missed tackle numbers have declined sharply this season. Most of his fantasy production last week came through the passing game with 6 catches for 41 yards. His rushing efficiency has not supported sustained fantasy value. Kansas City’s offense has also struggled to create scoring opportunities, and its ground game has struggled the entire season. Pacheco has become a volume-dependent fantasy option with a limited ceiling.
Pacheco draws the toughest possible matchup for running backs in Week 17, making him a sit. Denver has allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs this season at 16.5 per game. The Broncos also limit receptions to the position with only 42 receptions allowed, capping Pacheco’s PPR upside after his receiving work carried his production last week. Kansas City has little incentive to push starters in a lost season, which could lead to an increase in snaps for rookie Brashard Smith. Overall, Pacheco has been ineffective running the ball this season and faces a matchup where his receiving floor is in question. It is best to avoid him in lineups this week as he profiles as a middle-of-the-pack RB3.
Other Running Backs to Sit
- Kareem Hunt (KC)
- Brashard Smith (KC)
- Jaleel McLaughin (DEN)
- Jacory Croskey-Merritt (WAS)
- Malik Davis (DAL)
- Jeremy McNichols (WAS)
Wide Receivers to Start
Courtland Sutton (DEN)
Courtland Sutton has quietly emerged as one of the most reliable fantasy wide receivers down the stretch, currently ranking as the WR16 in fantasy points per game. He commands a strong 19.6 percent target share while averaging 64.8 receiving yards per contest and posting an impressive 2.00 yards per route run. Sutton is also heavily relied upon as a primary read, owning a 24.6 percent first-read share, which ranks near the top among perimeter wide receivers. His role in high-value areas of the field remains intact, as he ranks second on the Broncos in both red-zone targets with 14 and deep targets with 21. Over the last three weeks, Sutton has seen 32 total targets, cementing his role as the focal point of Denver’s passing offense. In Week 16, he turned 12 targets into six receptions for 86 yards and a touchdown, finishing as the WR9 in PPR formats. Over the last three weeks combined, Sutton ranks as the WR7 in fantasy football.
This week’s matchup against Kansas City is more favorable than it appears on paper. Since Week 11, the Chiefs have deployed two-high safety looks at the sixth-highest rate in the league, a coverage scheme Sutton has handled well. Against two-high looks during that span, Sutton leads Denver with a 19.5 percent target share and ranks second in first-read share while still producing 1.50 yards per route run. Kansas City’s secondary has struggled recently, allowing the seventh-most PPR points per target and the 11th-most receiving yards per game since Week 12. The Chiefs are also expected to be without both Jaylen Watson and Trent McDuffie, significantly weakening their perimeter coverage. While WR1 production against Kansas City has been volatile, Sutton’s recent form tilts the odds in his favor. He has scored at least 17 fantasy points in three of his last four games. With Denver still playing meaningful football and Sutton operating as the clear alpha, he is a strong WR2 with WR1 upside in championship week.
Troy Franklin (DEN)
Troy Franklin continues to profile as one of the most intriguing upside wide receivers in fantasy football heading into Week 17. He ranks as the WR28 in fantasy points per game and has already logged eight top-36 weekly finishes this season. Franklin holds a 17.6 percent target share, averages 46.1 receiving yards per game, and produces 1.65 yards per route run. He is heavily involved in high-value usage, leading the Broncos with 16 red-zone targets and 23 deep targets. Despite some volatility in snap share earlier in the season, Franklin has stabilized with route participation rates of 58.3 percent and 71.4 percent over the last two games. That consistency alleviates concerns about his playing time heading into the fantasy championship. Franklin also continues to run the second-most routes on the team behind Courtland Sutton.
The matchup against Kansas City offers both risk and upside. Since Week 11, the Chiefs have leaned heavily into two-high safety looks, which has limited Franklin’s usage, dropping his target share to just 9.3 percent in those situations. However, Kansas City has still struggled to contain perimeter receivers, allowing the seventh-most PPR points per target and the 11th-most receiving yards per game since Week 12. Franklin’s role could expand further with Pat Bryant sidelined due to a concussion, consolidating targets in Denver’s offense. In Week 16, Franklin posted four receptions for 66 yards, a solid WR3 output despite not finding the end zone. He ranks third in the NFL in deep targets and eighth in red-zone targets, underscoring his big-play and touchdown potential. The Chiefs rank just 18th in pass defense DVOA and are bottom ten in sack rate, allowing quarterbacks time to attack downfield. With increased opportunity and a favorable matchup, Franklin carries legitimate WR2 or strong Flex upside. He is one of the best high-ceiling wide receivers available for fantasy managers this week.
Justin Jefferson (MIN)
Justin Jefferson’s 2025 season has been one of the most frustrating statistical anomalies in fantasy football, as he currently ranks just WR34 in points per game despite elite usage. He commands a massive 28.1 percent target share and an even more dominant 39 percent air-yard share. Jefferson remains heavily featured as the first read on 34.2 percent of pass plays while producing 1.91 yards per route run. He has also seen strong scoring opportunity usage, tallying 16 red-zone targets and 20 deep targets on the season. Despite that workload, inconsistent quarterback play has severely limited his weekly output. In Max Brosmer’s lone full start earlier this season, Jefferson totaled just 2.4 fantasy points. That performance understandably caused concern among fantasy managers.
However, recent context suggests Jefferson remains playable in Week 17. He is coming off a 14.5-point fantasy performance with 85 receiving yards. Even when Brosmer was forced into action last week, he completed seven of nine passes for 52 yards and connected with Jefferson multiple times. Minnesota now draws another favorable matchup against Detroit’s secondary. Since Week 12, the Lions have allowed the most receiving yards per game and the third-most PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers. The last time Jefferson faced Detroit, he posted 16.7 fantasy points despite the Vikings’ offensive struggles. Detroit has surrendered the second-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers overall this season. Jefferson’s volume and matchup combination keep his ceiling intact. While his floor remains lower than usual, benching a player with this profile is extremely risky. Jefferson should remain locked into lineups as a WR2 based on opportunity and matchup alone.
Terry McLaurin (WAS)
Terry McLaurin’s fantasy output has been volatile since returning in Week 13, but his underlying usage still suggests strong upside. Over his last four games, he has posted weekly finishes of WR8, WR44, WR19, and WR43. During that stretch, McLaurin has commanded a 22.4 percent target share, averaged 64.8 receiving yards per game, and posted an elite 2.64 yards per route run. He also leads Washington in first-read share at 29.5 percent, confirming his role as the offense’s primary receiver. His recent dip in production has been driven more by quarterback instability than by declining usage. Over his last three games, he has been held under 70 yards twice and failed to score in two contests. Despite that, he still ranks WR28 in PPR formats during that span.
This week’s matchup against Dallas offers a prime get-right opportunity. Since Week 12, the Cowboys have allowed the most PPR points per target and the sixth-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers. Dallas also plays single-high coverage at one of the highest rates in the league, a look McLaurin thrives against. Since Week 13 versus single-high coverage, McLaurin owns a 25.5 percent target share and averages 2.47 yards per route run. Quarterback concerns do exist, as Josh Johnson takes over as the starter and struggled last week. However, Dallas has been repeatedly burned by deep receivers, and McLaurin’s 14.5 aDOT is a career high. He has scored three touchdowns over his last five games. The Commanders are likely to be forced into a pass-heavy script against a porous defense. McLaurin carries top-12 upside and is one of the best values on the Christmas slate.
Wide Receivers to Sit
Xavier Worthy (KC)
Xavier Worthy’s season has trended sharply downward over the second half of the year. Since Week 7, he has recorded just two top-36 weekly finishes and has failed to crack the top 24 at the position even once. During that stretch, he has not surpassed 61 receiving yards in any game. Worthy’s 14.8 percent target share, 43 receiving yards per game, and 1.39 yards per route run reflect his diminished role in the offense. He has seen only three red-zone targets across his last nine games, severely limiting his touchdown upside. Even with Rashee Rice sidelined, Worthy has failed to establish himself as a reliable fantasy option. His production has been inefficient and inconsistent every week.
The quarterback situation in Kansas City completely removes any remaining optimism. With Patrick Mahomes out for the season and Gardner Minshew placed on injured reserve, the Chiefs will start either Chris Oladokun this week. Worthy’s chemistry with either quarterback is nonexistent, and his recent performances reflect that instability. Kansas City is a 13-point home underdog and has nothing to play for competitively. Denver’s defense has allowed the 14th-fewest PPR points per target to perimeter receivers since Week 10. The game script could spiral quickly, limiting passing efficiency across the board. Worthy’s recent fantasy outputs include 5.1 points in Week 16 and under seven points in four of his last six games. Without volume or scoring opportunities, his ceiling is extremely low. In a fantasy championship week, he is an unnecessary risk. Worthy should remain on benches in all formats.
Deebo Samuel (WAS)
Deebo Samuel has struggled in recent weeks, making him a risky start for Week 17. Over his last four games, he has averaged just 42.3 receiving yards per game on a 19% target share with 1.56 yards per route run. During that span, Samuel has recorded only one deep target and one red-zone target, limiting his upside in PPR formats. Recent fantasy outputs include 6.5 points in Week 16, 7.3 in Week 15, 6.7 in Week 14, and 11.1 in Week 13. While he remains active in short-area routes, his low volume and minimal scoring opportunities cap his ceiling. Washington’s quarterback uncertainty, with Marcus Mariota injured and Josh Johnson likely starting, further decreases Samuel’s chances of producing meaningful fantasy points.
Samuel faces an easy matchup in Week 17 against the Dallas Cowboys. While Dallas ranks last in total PPR points allowed to wide receivers, the struggles of Samuel with McLaurin active outweigh he matchup. This season, when both receivers have been healthy, Deebo has only topped 12 points once. His lack of deep targets and red-zone opportunities reduces the chance for touchdowns or explosive plays. Given his declining efficiency and limited involvement, Samuel’s fantasy floor is modest, and his ceiling is capped. Managers should prioritize other wide receivers with higher volume, better scoring opportunities, and more reliable quarterback play.
Jordan Addison (MIN)
Jordan Addison’s season has been marked by volatility and declining fantasy relevance. He currently ranks as the WR47 in fantasy points per game despite seeing a respectable 18.6 percent target share. Addison averages 50.2 receiving yards per game and posts 1.72 yards per route run, but his weekly production has been inconsistent. He has surpassed 10 fantasy points just twice since Week 8 and has failed to do so since Week 14. Over the last two games, Addison has caught just four total passes. Quarterback instability has played a major role in his decline, limiting the overall ceiling of Minnesota’s passing offense. Even when Max Brosmer started earlier in the season, Addison failed to deliver strong fantasy numbers.
While Detroit’s defense has been vulnerable to perimeter receivers, the Vikings’ offensive context limits Addison’s appeal. Addison’s red-zone and deep target usage remain solid on the season, but those opportunities have not materialized recently. Detroit’s defensive struggles do not guarantee production when quarterback efficiency is lacking. Jefferson’s presence further caps Addison’s target ceiling, as the offense has struggled through the air and has limited their passing volume. Even in favorable matchups, Addison has failed to capitalize consistently. With low recent production and uncertain quarterback play, he carries far more downside than upside. In championship formats, fantasy managers should prioritize safer volume options. Addison is best left on the bench in Week 17.
Other Wide Receivers to Sit
- Marquise Brown (KC)
- Ryan Flournoy (DAL)
- Marvin Mims (DEN)
Tight Ends to Start
Travis Kelce (KC)
Travis Kelce enters Week 17 as the TE7 in fantasy points per game despite this being one of the least efficient seasons of his career by several advanced metrics. He owns a 17.7 percent target share, averages 53.5 receiving yards per game, and posts 1.74 yards per route run, all of which represent noticeable declines from his peak years. Kelce’s usage near the goal line has also dropped, as he has just 11 red-zone targets and seven deep targets on the season, severely capping his weekly touchdown equity. Despite that, he remains heavily involved as a first read, commanding an 18.8 percent first-read target share that keeps him fantasy relevant even when efficiency dips. The concerns revolve entirely around quarterback play after Patrick Mahomes suffered a season-ending ACL injury last week. Kansas City’s situation worsened when Gardner Minshew was injured and subsequently placed on injured reserve, leaving Chris Oladokun as the Week 17 starter.
His Week 11 matchup against Denver showcased his remaining ceiling, where he secured nine receptions on 13 targets for 91 yards and a touchdown. That performance resulted in a TE3 weekly finish and was easily his best game of the season. Since Week 10, the Broncos have quietly become one of the league’s most generous defenses against tight ends, allowing the third-most fantasy points per game and the fourth-most receiving yards to the position. Over their last three games, opposing TE1s have all recorded at least four receptions, with two of the three scoring touchdowns. He carries a wide range of outcomes, but his ceiling remains higher than most tight ends on the slate. Kelce should be started as a low-end TE1, particularly in lineups lacking safer positional alternatives.
Jake Ferguson (DAL)
Jake Ferguson continues to operate as one of the most heavily utilized tight ends in the NFL despite recent box score struggles. He ranks as the TE8 in fantasy points per game while commanding a 17.1 percent target share and a 19 percent first-read share in the Cowboys’ offense. Ferguson averages 39.3 receiving yards per game and posts 1.31 yards per route run, numbers that are modest but buoyed by elite usage in high-leverage situations. He is 2nd among tight ends on the season in red zone targets and ranks top three in touchdowns at the position. Over the last two games, Ferguson has been held under 20 receiving yards, but those matchups came against strong pass defenses that limited overall passing production.
Week 17 presents a far more favorable environment against a Washington defense that has consistently struggled against the pass. The Commanders allow the seventh-most passing yards per game and the fourth-most PPR fantasy points to tight ends this season. Since Week 10, they rank bottom ten in yards per target allowed to the position and have repeatedly failed to contain tight ends in the red zone. Ferguson already exploited this matchup earlier in the year, catching seven passes and scoring a touchdown against Washington. Despite ranking just TE8 in actual points per game, his expected fantasy points place him as the TE4, signaling strong positive regression potential. With touchdown upside and high-end usage intact, Ferguson remains a strong TE1 start this week. Fantasy managers should trust the volume and matchup combination to correct recent inefficiency.
Tight Ends to Sit
TJ Hockenson (MIN)
T.J. Hockenson has endured one of the most disappointing fantasy seasons of any tight end, currently ranking as the TE25 in points per game. He has surpassed 50 receiving yards in just two games all season and has posted only two TE1-level weekly finishes. His 15.1 percent target share, 29.2 receiving yards per game, and 1.17 yards per route run all represent career lows. While Hockenson has seen 11 red-zone targets, he has converted them into just three touchdowns, highlighting his inefficiency in high-leverage situations. Over 15 games, he has totaled only 51 receptions for 438 yards, averaging just 7.47 PPR points per game. His weekly volatility has been extreme, including a disastrous 1.2-point outing in Week 16. That performance marked his seventh single-digit fantasy game over his last nine contests. Hockenson’s declining role has coincided with instability at quarterback, which has cratered the Vikings’ passing efficiency.
That instability worsens in Week 17, with rookie Max Brosmer expected to start again. Brosmer has thrown four interceptions on just 47 career pass attempts and has struggled to sustain drives or support pass catchers. Hockenson has averaged fewer than five targets per game over his last three outings with Brosmer under center. He is also dealing with a shoulder injury and has not practiced this week, leaving his availability and effectiveness in serious doubt. Even if active, Minnesota could limit his snaps to protect him long-term. Detroit’s defense is not elite at limiting tight end production, but it still ranks in the middle of the pack this year. With limited volume, poor quarterback play, and injury concerns, Hockenson has virtually no ceiling. Consensus rankings place him outside the top 20 tight ends for the week. In championship formats, his risk far outweighs his upside. Hockenson should remain firmly on fantasy benches.
Evan Engram (DEN)
Evan Engram’s first season in Denver has been a dramatic falloff from his previous fantasy relevance. Through 14 games, he has recorded just 43 receptions for 395 yards and one touchdown, averaging 6.3 PPR points per game. His snap share sits at just 43 percent, frequently trailing Adam Trautman in both routes run and overall involvement. Engram averages only 4.9 targets per game and has been held to two or fewer receptions in four of his last five outings. His role has been almost exclusively limited to short-area routes, reflected by his shallow average depth of target and lack of explosive plays. Despite ranking relatively well in yards after the catch, his low volume prevents that efficiency from translating into fantasy production. He has just seven red-zone targets all season and has not been a consistent scoring threat. Denver’s offense rarely schemes touches for him in high-value situations.
Week 17 presents one of the worst possible matchups against Kansas City on the road. The Chiefs allow just 11.3 PPR points per game to tight ends and have surrendered only four touchdowns to the position all season. They also limit tight ends to fewer than five catches per game, eliminating any PPR floor. Engram’s target share has fluctuated wildly week to week, but his lack of trust from the coaching staff remains evident. He has produced under 25 receiving yards in four of his last five games, including multiple near-zero outings. Denver continues to prioritize wide receivers and running backs in the passing game, further squeezing Engram’s opportunities. Engram is a touchdown-dependent dart throw with extremely low odds of scoring. In a championship week, he carries more risk than reward. He should be avoided in all fantasy formats.
Other Tight Ends to Sit
- Shane Zylstra (DET)
- John Bates (WAS)
- Ben Sinnott (WAS)
- Josh Oliver (MIN)
