Fantasy football managers know that every lineup decision can make or break a week, and choosing the right players to start or sit is where championships are won. With the 2025 NFL season underway, matchups, stats, and trends are more important than ever. Each week, we’ll break down the top fantasy football start ’em, sit ’em picks at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, defense, and kicker to help you set the best possible lineup. From favorable matchups and scoring trends to players you should avoid in tough spots, my weekly guide is built to give you an edge.
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Quarterbacks to Start
Joe Flacco CIN
Joe Flacco’s late-career resurgence in Cincinnati has been one of the biggest surprises of the fantasy football season. In just four starts, he’s averaged an astounding 25 fantasy points per game, throwing for over 340 yards twice and at least three touchdowns in three of those outings. The Bengals’ offense has been completely reinvigorated in fantasy football since he took over, with Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown producing significantly better. With the Bengals’ defense struggling this year, Flacco has yet to have a game under 34 passing attempts, with three of his games resulting in over 45 attempts.
For Week 11, fantasy managers should confidently start Flacco against Pittsburgh. The Steelers have allowed the second-most passing yards in the NFL and have surrendered at least 20 fantasy points to five opposing quarterbacks this season. Flacco already torched this defense once for 342 yards and three scores earlier in the year. Pittsburgh’s secondary ranks bottom 10 in adjusted completion rate allowed and success rate per dropback since Week 6, while also dealing with some injuries in the secondary entering the week. With elite passing volume, a favorable matchup, and top-tier efficiency, Flacco profiles as a must-start fantasy football quarterback this week..
Aaron Rodgers PIT
Aaron Rodgers has been a model of consistency throughout his career, but this season has been a different story. After posting three straight 17-point fantasy football outings, he’s come back down to earth in recent weeks, totaling just 18.5 points across his last two starts. Rodgers is not pushing the ball down the field with 65% of his passing yardage has come that way, and his ADOT ranks near the bottom among starting quarterbacks. This checkdown style of offense relies heavily on the Steelers’ playmakers making defenders miss or having the right matchup to capitalize on it. Let’s just say the matchup this week against Cincinnati is perfect for Rodgers to put up some big numbers.
This week, Rodgers faces a Bengals defense that has been a dream matchup for fantasy quarterbacks. Cincinnati has allowed the second-most fantasy points to the position, with only three quarterbacks who failed to score at least 19 points against them. Rodgers threw four touchdowns when these teams met earlier this year, totaling 249 yards with a 67.6% completion rate. His success against Cincy’s soft zone looks should continue, as the Bengals allow one of the league’s highest yards-after-catch and missed-tackle rates. While he’s no longer a consistent QB1, Rodgers can be started in fantasy football this week as a matchup-based play with legitimate multi-touchdown potential.
Dak Prescott DAL
Dak Prescott has historically come out firing after a bye week, averaging nearly 23 fantasy points per game in those situations, and his statistical profile this year continues to support optimism. Prescott ranks inside the top 10 in passing yards per game, passing touchdowns, and highly accurate throw rate while leading the entire league in catchable target percentage. After four straight 20+ point performances, he has cooled off as of late, totaling 22 points in his last two games. No need to overreact, as the matchups were difficult and the Cowboys still rank 2nd in pass rate over expectation, which has kept Prescott’s fantasy volume secure for most of the season.
This week’s matchup with the Raiders puts Prescott firmly in the start category. Las Vegas’ pass defense metrics are deceptively solid due to an easy schedule, but when tested by good offenses, they have struggled. Prescott’s weapons at receiver should feast against this secondary, which has allowed one of the highest completion rates and explosive pass percentages in the league since Week 6. Expect Prescott to post strong QB1 numbers on Monday night, particularly given his proven post-bye success and Dallas’ high passing volume in scoring position. Start him confidently in all fantasy formats this week.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Baker Mayfield TB
Baker Mayfield has played better than expected this season despite a tough schedule and key injuries to receivers. Despite battling through those, Mayfield ranks inside the top 15 in both passing yards per game and touchdown passes. He’s excelled in high-pressure spots, ranking fifth in pressured completion percentage and second in pressured catchable pass rate. The Buccaneers’ offensive line has held up reasonably well, and Mayfield’s strong play has mitigated potential breakdowns. However, his fantasy ceiling has been inconsistent as he ranks 20th among quarterbacks in points per dropback and ranks 18th in expected points per game. Two of his last three games have been below 12 fantasy points as well since Mike Evans’ injury.
For Week 11, Mayfield should be treated as a sit in lineups. The Bills have been one of the toughest defenses for quarterbacks this season, ranking top-five in fewest fantasy points allowed and top-10 in nearly every major efficiency metric. Buffalo’s defense has shut down elite passers like Patrick Mahomes and Drake Maye, holding them under 12 points apiece. Since Week 6, Buffalo ranks among the league’s best in limiting yards per attempt, completion percentage over expected, and success rate per dropback while ranking top three in the NFL in sacks. Pivot to streamer options like Aaron Rodgers or Joe Flacco this week over Mayfield in a tough matchup.
Sam Darnold SEA
Sam Darnold’s efficiency numbers have been impressive, even if his fantasy output hasn’t reflected it consistently. He ranks first in yards per attempt and second in both highly accurate throw rate and hero throw rate among qualified passers, showing a strong command in his 1st year of Klint Kubiak’s offense. However, the game script has limited his fantasy upside, like last week, when he attempted just 12 passes due to an early blowout. Despite this, Darnold is right in the MVP conversation and has three 20+ point performances in his last five games. This week will be the toughest test of the season for the Seahawks offense against one of the league’s best defenses in the Rams.
Fantasy football managers should sit Darnold this week against the Rams. Los Angeles has allowed just three quarterbacks all year to top 20 fantasy points and ranks inside the top 10 in multiple pass defense metrics, including passer rating and yards per attempt allowed. Darnold has struggled when forced into high-pressure situations, and the Rams’ defense has excelled at collapsing pockets. Even though his real-life efficiency remains solid, the limited passing volume and matchup concerns make him a risky fantasy start. Outside of Superflex or two-quarterback leagues, he’s best left on the bench this week.
Jared Goff DET
Jared Goff’s passing has been a key driver of Detroit’s offensive consistency this season. With Dan Campbell taking over play-calling duties, Goff threw for 320 yards and 3 touchdowns in a dominant win over the Commanders. He ranks fifth in yards per attempt, seventh in accuracy metrics, and second in catchable target rate, which shows his level of play has not taken a dip this season. His fantasy production in recent weeks is also gaining some momentum with three 19+ point performances in his last five games. While Goff and the Lions offense are trending in the right direction, I am a bit hesitant to start him this week.
Fantasy football managers should sit Goff this week against Philadelphia if they have a safer alternative. The Eagles have allowed the fewest passing touchdowns in the league and rank among the top 10 in both passing yards and fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks. Only two passers have thrown for multiple scores against them all season. Goff’s dependency on touchdown volume for fantasy success makes him a risky play here. However, if Detroit continues using heavy play-action as it did in Week 10, there’s some upside, but the floor remains low against this elite secondary. Unless you’re in a two-quarterback format, Goff is better off benched in Week 11.
Running Backs to Start
Jaylen Warren PIT
Jaylen Warren continues to serve as the heartbeat of Pittsburgh’s backfield, providing steady production and elite efficiency. In his last matchup against Cincinnati, Warren turned 20 touches into 158 total yards and finished as the RB7 for the week. This year, he’s averaging 17 touches and 86 total yards per game, ranking as the RB18 in fantasy points per game. His advanced metrics back up the numbers; among 64 qualifying running backs, Warren sits sixth in missed tackle rate and 15th in yards after contact per attempt. Cincinnati’s defense has struggled badly in recent weeks, allowing the most rushing yards per game, second-most yards after contact per attempt, and third-highest explosive run rate since Week 6.
This week’s matchup makes Warren one of the best starts at the position. He’s commanded 77 percent of the Steelers’ carries over the last four weeks, solidifying his role as the clear feature back. Backup RB Kenneth Gainwell has played under 35% of snaps in back-to-back weeks, which is also encouraging. The Bengals’ defense has allowed the most fantasy points to running backs since midseason, and with Warren’s balance of volume and efficiency, he’s positioned to capitalize again. Fantasy managers can confidently lock him into lineups as a top-tier RB2 with RB1 upside this week.
Chase Brown CIN
Chase Brown’s rise has mirrored the Bengals’ offensive resurgence with Joe Flacco under center. Since Flacco took over, Brown has averaged 14.6 touches and 91.5 total yards per game, ranking as the RB11 in fantasy points per game during that span. His efficiency metrics are impressive; he ranks eighth in explosive run rate, third in missed tackle rate, and second in yards after contact per attempt among 45 qualifying backs since Week 6. In his first meeting with Pittsburgh, Brown gashed the defense for 108 yards on just 11 carries, showcasing his ability to create chunk plays. The Steelers’ defense has been league-average against the run since Week 6, sitting in the middle of the pack in success rate and yards before contact per attempt.
Brown’s recent production makes him a strong start in Week 11. He’s averaged 16.4 fantasy points per game with Flacco as the starter, compared to under 10 before the quarterback change. Brown has topped 19 fantasy points in back-to-back games, recording 11 receptions for 107 yards and a touchdown through the air in that span. With Samaje Perine potentially sidelined, Brown’s passing-game usage only grows, giving him a reliable floor to pair with his explosive ceiling. Fantasy managers should view him as a locked-in RB2 with top-10 potential in what could be another productive outing against a familiar AFC North opponent.
Woody Marks HOU
Woody Marks looks to have gained control of Houston’s backfield, and the numbers support his growing workload. Last week, Marks played 80 percent of the offensive snaps and handled 16 touches for 81 total yards, finishing as the RB11 for the week. Among 64 qualifying backs, he ranks 25th in explosive run rate and 33rd in yards after contact per attempt, showing solid efficiency when given opportunities. Over the past four games, Marks has averaged 13.5 touches and at least 12 in four of his last six contests, proving his consistency in usage. His opponent this week, Tennessee, has struggled to contain the run lately, allowing the ninth-most rushing yards per game and 12th-most explosive runs since Week 6.
With the Titans also surrendering the fifth-most fantasy points to running backs, Marks is a fantasy start this week. His previous outing against Tennessee was his best of the season, with 119 total yards, two touchdowns, and a season-high 27.9 fantasy points. Marks’ heavy workload and consistent snap share make him a safe RB2 in all formats, and his involvement in both phases of the offense gives him a stable floor. The Titans have given up at least 16.6 PPR points to a running back in six of their past seven games, and Marks has scored double-digit fantasy points in three of his last four. Managers should ride the hot hand and keep Marks in lineups for another strong performance.
Running Backs to Sit
Kimani Vidal LAC
Kimani Vidal’s season has shown flashes of potential, highlighted by volume and power running between the tackles. Since Week 6, he’s averaged 19.2 touches and 87.6 total yards per game, ranking as the RB16 in fantasy points per game during that stretch. Among 64 qualifying running backs, he ranks 20th in explosive run rate but just 34th in yards after contact per attempt, reflecting an uneven blend of burst and consistency. The Chargers’ offense remains middle-of-the-pack by weighted offensive DVOA, which limits touchdown opportunities and sustained drives. This week, Vidal faces a Jaguars defense that has been dominant against the run, allowing the fifth-lowest explosive run rate and third-fewest rushing yards per game since Week 6.
Given the defensive matchup and game environment, Vidal is a sit for Week 11. Jacksonville has also held zone-running schemes, which make up 60.4% of Vidal’s carries, to just 3.9 yards per attempt. The Chargers’ offense in this one will look to exploit the Jaguars’ weaker secondary, which has struggled over the last month. Even with a strong workload, the matchup has significant warning flags tied to it. Managers should look elsewhere this week and treat Vidal as a low-floor flex option in every format. Potential pivot options this week include Emari Demercado and Kareem Hunt.
David Montgomery DET
David Montgomery’s recent fantasy football production has dipped since his big Week 5 performance against Cincinnati. Over his last four games, he’s averaged just 8.8 fantasy points per game and has topped 40 rushing yards only once. While he remains a fixture in Detroit’s goal-line packages, his role has been overshadowed by the emergence of Jahmyr Gibbs, who has steadily out-snapped him more than he did last year. Montgomery’s efficiency metrics reflect this decline; he’s posting just 4.1 true yards per carry and ranks outside the top 30 in evaded tackles per game. The matchup this week doesn’t help, as Philadelphia’s run defense has limited opponents to 3.9 yards per carry and ranks top 10 in rush DVOA.
Given his touchdown dependency and declining workload, Montgomery profiles as a sit this week. The Eagles have surrendered just eight rushing touchdowns all season, and their defensive front routinely forces negative game scripts for opposing backs. With Gibbs handling more passing-down work, Montgomery’s limited target share further reduces his floor in PPR formats. Even if Detroit moves the ball effectively, the Eagles’ red-zone defense is disciplined enough to cap Montgomery’s scoring upside. Fantasy managers should fade him in Week 11 and treat him as a touchdown-dependent flex option rather than a locked-in starter.
Zach Charbonnet and Kenneth Walker SEA
Seattle’s backfield has been one of the more frustrating situations for fantasy managers this season. Kenneth Walker has gone four straight games without a touchdown and hasn’t scored double-digit fantasy points since Week 4, while Zach Charbonnet has found the end zone five times in that same stretch. Both backs have seen inconsistent efficiency. Charbonnet is averaging just 3.3 yards per carry on the season, while Walker’s production has been limited by negative game scripts. In their Week 10 outing, Walker totaled just 70 yards on 15 touches, and Charbonnet saw 14 touches for 83 yards and a score. Seattle’s offense has been splitting red-zone opportunities nearly evenly between the two, with neither gaining a consistent edge.
This week’s matchup against the Rams makes both Walker and Charbonnet sits. Los Angeles has allowed the fewest fantasy points to running backs, giving up just two total touchdowns and the fifth-fewest rushing yards all season. Their front seven routinely disrupts backfields, allowing minimal yards after contact and forcing predictable passing downs. Even if one of these backs finds the end zone, the low combined efficiency and defensive matchup make the odds of a big fantasy day slim. Managers are better off avoiding the Seahawks’ committee altogether until a clearer workload split emerges in a more favorable matchup.
Wide Receivers to Start
DeVonta Smith PHI
DeVonta Smith has quietly emerged as the most consistent pass catcher for the Eagles this season, operating as the WR13 in fantasy points per game. His chemistry with Jalen Hurts has been on full display, commanding a 26.1% target share and an impressive 37.9% air-yard share. Smith’s ability to win both on intermediate and deep routes has made him a consistent chain-mover, averaging 73 yards per game while maintaining elite efficiency at 2.38 yards per route run. He’s been particularly effective in key situations, leading the Eagles in deep targets (13) and ranking near the top in first-read share at 32.5%. The Lions’ defense has shown weaknesses in single-high coverage, where Smith thrives, and Detroit has struggled to contain receivers working out of the slot in recent weeks.
This matchup positions Smith as a strong start for Week 11. Since Week 6, Detroit has allowed the sixth-most receiving yards per game, and they still have a number of injuries in their secondary that they are battling. He’s now scored at least 14.4 PPR points in three straight games, showing a combination of reliability and upside that’s tough to bench. With A.J. Brown drawing most of the defensive attention and even hinting at his own struggles publicly, Smith could continue to operate as the top option in this offense. Given the matchup, usage, and recent form, Smith profiles as a high-end WR2 who could easily finish inside the top 12 fantasy receivers this week.
Quentin Johnston LAC
Quentin Johnston’s recent usage spike has been encouraging for fantasy managers searching for midseason receiver help. Over the last two games, Johnston has earned a 21% target share and 22.9% air-yard share, which is a notable boost from his midseason slump. He’s averaging 47.5 receiving yards per game in that span and has been heavily featured as a first-read option on 27.3% of his routes. Johnston’s 10 targets in Week 10 show that his role is expanding, especially if the Chargers are forced to pass in a competitive game script. The matchup this week against the Jaguars could play right into his hands, as they are one of the best run defenses in football, but have struggled against the pass as of late.
This week, Johnston is a volatile fantasy start who carries both breakout and bust potential. Jacksonville has allowed the fourth-most PPR points per target and the ninth-most receiving yards per game to outside receivers, signaling opportunity if Johnston can exploit coverage breakdowns. However, his production could dip if the Jaguars lean on their two-high safety shell, where Johnston has been far less efficient with only 1.14 yards per route run. Still, the matchup’s upside can’t be ignored. The Jaguars have allowed seven touchdowns to receivers in their last four games, giving Johnston real big-play potential. Consider him a high-risk, high-reward WR3 who could pay off in lineups needing upside this week.
Christian Watson GB
Christian Watson’s return has added much-needed explosiveness to the Packers’ offense, especially as injuries have thinned out the receiving corps. Since Week 8, Watson has operated as the team’s deep threat, with 50% of his 12 targets coming on downfield throws and a massive 25.8-yard average depth of target. He’s recorded a 10.9% target share but a dominant 38.2% air-yard share, reflecting his field-stretching impact even when target volume is limited. The Giants’ secondary plays man coverage at one of the league’s highest rates and struggles to contain vertical routes, both areas where Watson excels. With several of Green Bay’s other pass-catchers banged up, Watson’s opportunity for a spike week is growing.
This matchup makes Watson a strong fantasy football start in Week 11. The Giants have allowed the seventh-most PPR points per target and fifth-most deep passing yards per game since Week 6, setting the stage for Watson’s skill set to shine. Given his deep-threat role and the Packers’ need for explosive plays, Watson carries legitimate boom potential. Watson has the talent to turn the passing game around this week. Fantasy managers looking for a high-upside flex option should plug him into lineups with confidence, as he has a real shot at a long touchdown in this matchup.
Wide Receivers to Sit
DK Metcalf PIT
DK Metcalf remains one of the league’s most physically dominant wide receivers, but his production has been inconsistent this season. He’s averaging 55.8 receiving yards per game with a 19.9% target share and a 38.6% air-yard share, but that volume hasn’t translated into steady fantasy output. Metcalf has just one top-20 weekly finish in his last five games and has failed to reach double-digit PPR points in three of those contests. His usage remains high in the red zone, where he leads the team with nine targets, but opposing defenses have focused on limiting his vertical impact. Against disciplined secondaries, his physicality hasn’t always been enough to overcome tight coverage, and this week’s opponent poses similar challenges.
Given the expected shadow coverage from D.J. Turner and the recent lack of explosive plays, Metcalf should be considered a fantasy football sit for Week 11. Turner held him to just 45 yards on four targets in their last matchup, and Cincinnati’s defense continues to be one of the stingiest in limiting big plays downfield. Turner is one of the most underrated corners in football with his 3rd-ranked coverage grade. Although Metcalf always carries touchdown upside due to his red zone role, his recent inefficiency and matchup concerns make him difficult to trust as anything more than a risky WR3. Unless the Steelers find creative ways to move him around, he could struggle to produce fantasy-relevant numbers once again.
Wan’Dale Robinson NYG
Wan’Dale Robinson continues to be one of the Giants’ most reliable weapons underneath, offering consistent target volume even as the offense remains up-and-down. He’s averaging 60.2 receiving yards per game with a strong 23.5% target share and a 28.3% first-read rate. Robinson has been targeted heavily in short and intermediate areas, leading the team in deep looks (11) and ranking second in red zone targets (6). His ability to separate quickly makes him a quarterback-friendly option, but his low average depth of target limits his explosive potential. Against teams that limit yards after the catch, Robinson’s impact tends to flatten out, and Green Bay fits that mold defensively.
This week, Robinson profiles as a sit due to the matchup and quarterback play concerns. The Packers have allowed the second-fewest yards to slot receivers and have been one of the league’s best at preventing yards after the catch, both areas that define Robinson’s game. With Jameis Winston expected to start, the Giants’ short-passing efficiency could dip, further lowering Robinson’s ceiling. He hasn’t seen a single red-zone target in his last five games, making it tough to project a touchdown opportunity. While his volume keeps him in PPR consideration, Robinson is best left on benches in Week 11 as the matchup severely limits his upside.
Xavier Worthy KC
Xavier Worthy has shown flashes of his explosiveness, but his fantasy football production has cooled considerably in recent weeks. Since Rashee Rice returned, Worthy hasn’t finished higher than WR38, averaging just 37 receiving yards per game. His 17.5% target share and 1.21 yards per route run over that stretch indicate declining efficiency as Kansas City redistributes targets among its receivers. Worthy still owns a respectable 24.3% first-read share, showing that the coaching staff designs opportunities for him, but he’s struggled to convert those into big plays. Against coverages that limit vertical separation, Worthy’s role becomes less impactful, and Denver’s defense has been particularly strong in those situations.
This week, Worthy should be considered a sit in all but the deepest formats. Denver’s defense ranks first in fewest fantasy points allowed to wide receivers and has allowed the fourth-fewest PPR points per target to perimeter receivers since Week 6. Even with Patrick Surtain II missing the game, the Broncos’ scheme has consistently neutralized players in Worthy’s role. With Rashee Rice commanding more of the offense and Worthy’s production stagnating, fantasy managers should avoid the risk and keep him on the bench for Week 11
Tight Ends to Start
Kyle Pitts ATL
Kyle Pitts has quietly pieced together a solid season, ranking as the TE15 in fantasy points per game while seeing consistent volume in Atlanta’s offense. He owns a 19.8% target share and averages 46.7 receiving yards per game, operating as a key first-read option on nearly 18% of dropbacks. His role as a reliable intermediate target has made him a steady presence, even in a conservative passing attack. Pitts has also maintained involvement near the goal line, collecting five red-zone targets on the year, and continues to stretch the field with his athleticism. Despite an underwhelming Week 10 performance in Berlin, he remains heavily featured, leading the Falcons in catches over the last month and ranking second in team targets and receiving yards.
This week’s matchup against Carolina makes Pitts a strong start. The Panthers have been generous to opposing tight ends, surrendering the sixth-most receiving yards and the fifth-most fantasy points per game to the position. Pitts’ consistent target volume combined with his red-zone presence gives him legitimate TE1 upside in this spot. Carolina’s defense has been burned by athletic tight ends all season, and the Falcons’ offense should lean on short and intermediate routes to move the chains. With the Falcons at home and Pitts seeing over six targets per game, he profiles as a safe and high-upside start in all fantasy formats for Week 11.
Travis Kelce KC
Travis Kelce remains one of the most dependable tight ends in football despite showing signs of age. Through nine games, he’s compiled 41 receptions for 540 yards and three touchdowns on 53 targets, averaging 12.8 fantasy points per game. Kelce continues to serve as Patrick Mahomes’ safety valve, commanding a 16.5% target share and producing 2.02 yards per route run. He has ranked top-10 in both red-zone and deep targets among tight ends, demonstrating that his role in key scoring situations remains intact. The Chiefs’ offense has more target competition than ever, but Kelce’s efficiency and connection with Mahomes still separate him from most players at the position.
For fantasy football purposes, Kelce should remain locked in as a start in Week 11 against Denver. The Broncos have allowed the most yards per reception to tight ends and have struggled against interior passing options in two-high defensive looks. Even with Rashee Rice reestablished in the offense, Kelce’s involvement near the line of scrimmage and in red-zone packages provides a stable floor. He’s projected once again to finish as a top-five tight end play, with a realistic shot to deliver a 70-yard and touchdown performance despite Denver looking like a tough matchup in terms of fantasy points allowed. Expect Kelce to surprise people this week with a big game in what looks like a tough matchup on paper.
Theo Johnson NYG
Theo Johnson has emerged as a bright spot for the Giants’ offense since Week 5, posting steady production despite a rotating cast at quarterback. Over his last six games, he’s averaged 41.3 receiving yards per contest and earned an 18.8% target share, ranking as the TE13 in fantasy points per game. Johnson has shown a strong connection with his quarterbacks, commanding a 21.4% first-read share and becoming a frequent red-zone option. His four touchdowns during that span have boosted his fantasy stock, but his consistent route participation and growing chemistry with the offense are equally encouraging. With Jameis Winston taking over under center, the Giants’ passing game may become more aggressive, creating additional scoring chances for Johnson.
This week, Johnson enters the fantasy football conversation as a start-worthy tight end against the Packers. Green Bay has allowed the ninth-most receiving touchdowns to tight ends this season, a weakness that aligns well with Johnson’s recent red-zone usage. While the Packers have limited yardage overall, Johnson’s scoring ability and Winston’s willingness to target tight ends downfield make him a strong option. He’s scored at least 10.7 PPR points in five of his past seven games and continues to provide a reliable safety valve near the goal line. For Week 11, Johnson is a viable fantasy start in most formats, especially for managers seeking touchdown upside.
Tight Ends to Sit
Luke Musgrave GB
Luke Musgrave stepped into the starting role for Green Bay in Week 10 but failed to make a strong impression. He saw a 76% route share but only managed 23 yards on 3 targets, averaging just 0.72 yards per route run. His aDOT of 3.3 yards suggests a short-area role designed more for safety-valve usage rather than the explosive plays we saw from Tucker Kraft. While the Packers’ offense has struggled to move the ball over the last two weeks, Musgrave’s involvement remains capped by the team’s focus on spreading the ball around between all of their pass catchers. The usage of tight ends in the Packers’ passing game ranks 17th in the NFL this year, and I expect this number to continue to decrease without Kraft.
Fantasy football managers should sit Musgrave in Week 11 against the Giants. New York’s defense has been one of the stingiest against tight ends, allowing the tenth-fewest fantasy points and just 4.3 receptions per game to the position. The Packers are likely to lean on their ground game and outside receivers, leaving Musgrave with few meaningful opportunities. His combination of low target volume and poor matchup caps his ceiling and makes him a risky play in all formats. Until he shows greater involvement or finds the end zone, Musgrave belongs on the fantasy bench this week.
Cade Otton TB
Cade Otton has been quietly productive over the last month, ranking as the TE11 in fantasy points per game since Week 5. He’s averaged 63.8 receiving yards per contest on a 21.4% target share, making him one of the Buccaneers’ most consistent chain-movers with all of the injuries they have endured at receiver. His 2.20 yards per route run highlights his effectiveness vertically, while his volume has resulted in strong fantasy production. However, despite his steady usage, Otton has not received a single red-zone target during this stretch, limiting his touchdown upside. Even with Tampa Bay’s wide receivers dealing with injuries, his role remains volume-based rather than explosive.
This week’s matchup against Buffalo makes Otton a sit. The Bills have surrendered the fewest receiving yards and fantasy points to tight ends this season, smothering opposing players at the position with elite zone coverage. No tight end has topped 50 yards against them all year, and Otton’s lack of scoring involvement only worsens his outlook. While his recent consistency might tempt managers, this is a brutal defensive draw that’s likely to yield single-digit production. Unless you’re desperate for a plug-and-play option, Otton should remain on the bench for Week 11.
TJ Hockenson MIN
T.J. Hockenson’s production has plummeted since J.J. McCarthy took over at quarterback for the Vikings. Over their four games together, Hockenson hasn’t topped 15 yards in any outing and has averaged just 11.1% of the team’s targets. He’s seen minimal involvement in the red zone and posted an alarming 0.45 yards per route run during that stretch. Minnesota’s offensive scheme under McCarthy has leaned heavily on quick passes to running backs and conservative play-calling, leaving Hockenson as an afterthought in the passing game. While his name recognition remains strong, his recent numbers paint a concerning picture for fantasy managers.
Fantasy football players should sit Hockenson in Week 11 despite a seemingly favorable matchup against the Bears. Chicago’s defense has allowed the 11th-most fantasy points to tight ends, but Hockenson’s connection with McCarthy has been nonexistent, and his volume simply isn’t there. Averaging only 4.7 fantasy points per game in their four starts together, he’s fallen out of the top-15 tight ends in most rankings. Even with potential game script advantages, his role and efficiency do not warrant starting confidence. Until Minnesota’s passing attack evolves or the quarterback situation changes, Hockenson is best left on the bench in all fantasy football formats.
DEF to Start
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are heating up at the right time and should be a defense to start in fantasy football this week. Since their bye, they’ve generated seven takeaways and four interceptions over just three games while racking up 23 fantasy points in their last two outings. Facing a Browns offense led by rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, this matchup offers huge upside. Cleveland has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to opposing defenses, with 26 sacks surrendered and 83 total quarterback pressures. With their pass rush regaining form and their secondary forcing mistakes, the Ravens are a top streaming start for Week 11 fantasy football lineups.
Houston Texans
Coming off their bye, the Houston Texans’ defense is a must-start in fantasy football against the Tennessee Titans. Tennessee has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing defenses, giving up a league-high sack rate and ranking ninth in giveaways. The Titans’ offense averages just 14.4 points and 244 total yards per game, setting the stage for Houston to dominate the trenches. With a talented front seven that thrives on pressure and turnovers, the Texans are poised for one of the best fantasy defensive performances of Week 11.
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons’ defense has quietly been one of the most reliable fantasy football options this season and is worth a start in Week 11. They’ve scored 10 or more fantasy points in back-to-back games and rank inside the top ten among all defenses. Their Week 11 matchup with the Panthers is highly favorable, as Carolina has averaged just 11.3 points per game across their last four contests. Atlanta’s strong pass rush and secondary should capitalize on turnovers while maintaining a high floor for fantasy managers. Given their upcoming schedule against the Saints and Jets, Atlanta also serves as a smart stash beyond this week.
DEF to Sit
Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are a clear sit in fantasy football this week as they take on the high-powered Detroit Lions offense. Detroit ranks top-five in scoring and total offense, averaging 31.4 points and over 370 yards per game while giving up just six turnovers and 18 sacks all season. The Lions have allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses, making this a matchup to avoid. The Eagles’ defense has reached double-digit fantasy points just three times this year, and in what projects to be a high-scoring affair, it’s best to sit them in Week 11.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense should be sat in fantasy football this week against the Buffalo Bills. This game has shootout potential, and the Bills have allowed the seventh-fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses. Josh Allen and the Buffalo offense have been elite at home, averaging 34.3 points per game while giving up the fewest sacks and second-fewest turnovers. While Tampa Bay can deliver when the matchup favors them, this one doesn’t. Fantasy managers should sit the Buccaneers defense and look elsewhere for a streaming option in Week 11.
Kickers to Start
Evan McPherson CIN
Evan McPherson is one of the best starters at kicker, facing a Steelers defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points to kickers at 9.8 per game. The Bengals offense is averaging 37.7 points per game over their last three contests, creating plenty of scoring chances. McPherson already dropped 17 fantasy points on Pittsburgh earlier this season, his best performance of the year. He’s nailed 13 of 16 field goals and remains perfect on extra points, showing consistency and trust despite an inconsistent season from their offense. With Cincinnati’s offense clicking but occasionally stalling in the red zone, McPherson is in a prime position for another strong performance.
Eddy Pineiro SF
Eddy Piñeiro is a strong start this week as the 49ers take on the Cardinals. While his production has fluctuated, Piñeiro has topped 11 points in four of his last six games and already scored 12 against Arizona earlier this season. The Cardinals have been generous to opposing kickers, allowing 10 fantasy points per game at home and ranking fifth in most points allowed to the position. Piñeiro’s perfect accuracy on the year and the production since taking over against a favorable matchup make him a strong play. Expect Pineiro and the 49ers to rebound this week.
Kickers to Sit
Matt Prater BUF
Matt Prater is an easy sit in this week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Prater has failed to reach 10 fantasy points since Week 2 and has posted three or fewer in three of his last four games. Tampa Bay has been stingy to opposing kickers, allowing just six field goals and 6.6 fantasy points per game to visitors. The Bills’ offensive aggressiveness on fourth downs and red-zone efficiency further limit Prater’s scoring opportunities. With few attempts likely coming his way, fantasy managers should sit Prater in Week 11.
Chad Ryland ARI
Chad Ryland is a kicker to sit in fantasy football for Week 11 as he faces the 49ers’ defense. While Ryland has been accurate this year, going 15-for-17 on field goals, his opportunities are trending down. The Cardinals’ offense struggles to sustain drives against elite defenses, and the 49ers rank among the top ten in fewest fantasy points allowed to kickers. Ryland’s volume could vanish quickly if Arizona falls behind early, forcing them to chase touchdowns instead of settling for field goals. Fantasy managers should look elsewhere for a more reliable kicking option this week.
