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
Jacoby Brissett ARI
Jacoby Brissett has completely exceeded expectations this season, going from an emergency replacement to a steady fantasy football contributor. Since taking over for Kyler Murray, he has delivered at least 18.7 fantasy points in seven straight games, showing remarkable consistency. During that stretch, he has averaged 21 fantasy points per game, putting him firmly in starter territory. His volume has been a major driver of this surge, as he has attempted 40 or more passes in four consecutive contests. Brissett has also produced in difficult matchups, scoring 24.7 points against Indianapolis, 23.8 against Green Bay, and 23.4 against Seattle. Even the potential absence of Marvin Harrison Jr. hasn’t slowed down his overall efficiency or usage. His weekly production and workload now make him one of the most reliable start options entering Week 14.
Brissett’s matchup against the Rams appears tough at first glance, but the underlying numbers tell a very different story. While Los Angeles ranks ninth in fewest fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks overall, they have struggled significantly in road games. Four of the six quarterbacks they’ve faced on the road scored at least 19.6 fantasy points, with only Cam Ward and a Lamar-less Ravens team failing to reach that threshold. Combined with Brissett’s passing volume and comfort in challenging spots, this is a stronger start matchup than most realize. Arizona will likely continue relying heavily on his arm, giving him the same reliable workload he’s thrived on for nearly two months. He deserves top-10 consideration this week and should be viewed as a clear start.
Jordan Love GB
Jordan Love has experienced one of the most roller-coaster fantasy football seasons, alternating between start and sit territory more than nearly any quarterback. His stats show why, as he has mixed high-ceiling blowups with inefficient stretches throughout the year. Coming off a strong Thanksgiving performance where he completed 18 of 30 attempts for 234 yards and four touchdowns, he appears to be trending upward again. Love has now scored at least 17.7 fantasy points in two of his last three games, showing signs of renewed stability. His underlying metrics are elite ranking third in yards, second in passing touchdowns, and first in EPA against man coverage and the blitz.
The Bears have allowed the fourth-most passing touchdowns and rank inside the top ten in fantasy points per game surrendered to quarterbacks. Three of the last five passers they’ve faced have scored at least 20.3 fantasy points, showing their vulnerability to capable offenses. Love’s previous success against Chicago only strengthens his outlook, with three games of 22.2 or more fantasy points in four career starts. His recent efficiency and the scoring environment both point toward another productive fantasy football performance. With the matchup working in his favor, Love belongs firmly in the start conversation as a low-end QB1. He carries both a safe floor and the upside to deliver another multi-touchdown outing
Sam Darnold SEA
Sam Darnold has been up and down the entire season, but the underlying numbers show he’s a high-quality quarterback when given the right opportunities. He’s thrown for 242.8 yards per game with 19 touchdowns on the season and ranks top 10 in passing yards, money throws, and dangerous plays. Showcasing strong production this season, the problem in fantasy has been the volume, as he is only averaging 27 passing attempts per game this year. The lack of volume has resulted in three of his last four games going under 5 points, with his lone strong outing of that stretch going for 18 against the Titans.
Darnold gets a dream bounce-back spot against the Falcons, who have struggled against the pass all season. Since Week 9, they’ve allowed the third-most passing yards per game and top-10 marks in yards per attempt. Seattle confirmed his minor ankle issue from last week isn’t expected to limit him this Sunday, so he should be full go. Atlanta also struggles against quarterbacks who can throw accurately and push the ball downfield, which fits Darnold perfectly. His efficiency on play-action (60.4% catchable) and deep balls (56.5% catchable) makes him even more dangerous in this matchup. With the matchup and efficiency all in his favor, Darnold is a must-start QB1 and a top streaming option for Week 14.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Caleb Williams CHI
Caleb Williams has had a frustrating mix of highs and lows this season, making him difficult to rely on in fantasy football. He is coming off an 11.5-point performance against Philadelphia, marking his second straight disappointing road outing after scoring just 10.3 points in Minnesota. As a rookie last year, he posted 16.2 or fewer fantasy points in both matchups with Green Bay, and those struggles could resurface here. Despite improvement this season, Williams still shows volatility in key metrics that impact weekly consistency. He ranks 34th in highly accurate throw rate and 39th in catchable target rate, where he is leaving plenty of opportunities on the table. He has finished as the QB20 or lower six times, reflecting his unstable weekly floor. His production swings dramatically based on matchup quality, and this is not the environment where he typically succeeds.
This matchup against Green Bay is a significant concern for fantasy football managers, as the Packers have been one of the league’s toughest pass defenses since Week 9. They have allowed the second-fewest passing yards per game and are tied for the second-fewest passing touchdowns allowed in that span. The Packers also rank top 10 in passer rating allowed. Williams’ floor has been dangerously low, scoring fewer than 12 fantasy points in five of his last nine games. Even worse, he has thrown one or zero touchdown passes in seven of those contests. Between the defensive matchup and his inconsistent accuracy metrics, this projects as another sit-worthy performance. Outside of Superflex formats, Williams should not be trusted in Week 14 fantasy football lineups.
Justin Herbert LAC
Justin Herbert enters Week 14 in a difficult situation, making him a risky option for fantasy football lineups. He recently underwent surgery on his broken left hand, and although it’s his non-throwing hand, the injury still affects his comfort and durability. Herbert’s production had already dipped before the injury, as he had scored 16.8 fantasy points or fewer in three straight games. The offensive line around him has struggled, leading to 16 sacks over his last four contests. With increased quick-passing and limited downfield opportunities, his fantasy ceiling has taken a noticeable hit. The uncertainty surrounding his health makes it even harder to trust Herbert this week. Given all the variables in play, he profiles much more as a sit than a start this week.
His matchup only adds to the concern, as the Eagles have developed into one of the toughest pass defenses in the league since Week 9. Their defense has tightened significantly, allowing a league-low 51 percent completion rate and generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. With Herbert dealing with a compromised offensive line and limited mobility due to the injury, this becomes an even more challenging spot. The risk of a late-week change at quarterback further complicates his viability in one-QB leagues. Fantasy football managers cannot afford a near-zero outcome in a crucial week, and this matchup makes that a real possibility. Herbert should be benched in standard formats and considered only in Superflex leagues.
Daniel Jones IND
Daniel Jones has delivered solid fantasy football outings in recent weeks, scoring 16 points in back-to-back tough matchups. Jones has now gone four straight weeks without a 20-point performance despite maintaining a high floor with none of those games dropping below 14 points. However, his current physical limitations are a concern, as he continues to manage a fractured fibula that has eliminated his rushing threat. Last week, he finished with just one rushing yard, signaling that his mobility is essentially gone. Since Week 9, Jones ranks as the QB16 in fantasy points per game, with mid-tier marks in most passing efficiency stats. With his recent decline in production, his fantasy utility has become far more matchup-dependent.
Unfortunately for Jones, this week’s matchup against Jacksonville presents more challenges than opportunities. The Jaguars have transformed defensively since their Week 8 bye, generating pressure on 39 percent of dropbacks, the eighth-highest rate in the NFL. Their pass defense has been especially stingy since Week 9, allowing the fourth-fewest yards per attempt, the 12th-lowest CPOE, and the 11th-lowest success rate per dropback. Although Jacksonville has benefited from facing shaky quarterbacks like Geno Smith, Davis Mills, and Cam Ward, they have still performed at a consistently strong level. Jones’ lack of mobility makes him far more vulnerable to pressure, which amplifies the risk in this matchup. This projects as an average spot at best for fantasy production, but his current limitations lower his ceiling even further. He should be viewed as a sit in Week 14 and avoided in one-QB leagues.
Running Backs to Start
RJ Harvey DEN
RJ Harvey continues to operate as Denver’s lead back, and while his Week 13 fantasy success came through touchdowns, his usage remained encouraging. He handled 13 carries for 35 yards and added three catches for 27 yards on four targets, giving him enough volume to remain a reliable fantasy football option. Harvey has now dominated the backfield for two straight games without J.K. Dobbins, controlling snaps, routes, and opportunities across the board. During that span, he has produced 15 touches and 58 total yards per game while ranking as the RB37 and RB2 in weekly scoring. With both goal-line looks going his way last week and a clear grip on the backfield, he profiles as a dependable option in lineups.
Harvey enters Week 14 with a favorable matchup against a Raiders defense that has quietly struggled in key areas despite competent surface-level metrics. Since Week 9, Las Vegas has ranked 16th in rushing yards allowed per game and has posted the sixth-highest missed tackle rate, which plays directly into Harvey’s strengths. Recent game scripts have worked against them, leading to the third-most rushing yards allowed to running backs in that span and five touchdowns surrendered over the last two weeks. Denver continues to feature its backs heavily in both the passing game and near the goal line, keeping Harvey well within start territory. The volume trend, combined with the defensive issues on the other side, supports his projection as a strong RB2 in fantasy football this week.
D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai CHI
D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai continue to operate as a highly effective tandem, and last week’s performance showed exactly how dangerous they can be when the Bears commit to a ground-heavy script. Swift played 52.9% of the snaps with a 47.5% route share, handling 19 touches for 138 total yards and one of the team’s five red zone rushing attempts. He enters the week producing as the RB13 in fantasy points per game. Monangai matched Swift’s efficiency with 22 carries for 130 yards, finishing as the RB8 for the week while playing 44.7% of the snaps and handling four of the team’s five red zone rushing attempts. Despite the split, both backs have remained productive, with Monangai averaging 14.4 fantasy PPG over the last five weeks and Swift at 12.3 during that stretch.
This week’s matchup sets up well for both backs in fantasy football, especially with how Green Bay has looked since Week 9. The Packers have allowed the fifth-most rushing yards to opposing running backs during that stretch, while giving up five rushing touchdowns and allowing 1.5 yards before contact per carry, the fifth-highest mark in the league. They’ve also been vulnerable to explosive runs, which play directly into the strengths of both Swift and Monangai. A ground-heavy approach makes sense again with the passing game lacking consistency. With both backs coming off top-eight fantasy finishes and Green Bay’s run defense showing cracks, they stay firmly in the start conversation this week.
Jaylen Warren PIT
Jaylen Warren remains the RB20 in fantasy points per game and has seen his role stabilize despite occasional dips in production. Last week, he reclaimed lead-back work with a 55.8% snap share, ten of the fifteen running back carries, and a 52% route share. He finished with 12 touches for 44 total yards and split the red zone role evenly, each back receiving one attempt. Among 55 qualifying running backs, Warren ranks fourth in missed tackle rate and tenth in yards after contact per attempt, showcasing his ability to generate yards independently. He has scored a touchdown in back-to-back games and now has at least 11.1 PPR points in five of his last seven outings. Even in less efficient games, his usage profile has kept him fantasy-relevant.
The matchup against Baltimore provides another opportunity for Warren to capitalize on defensive tendencies that align with his skill set. Since Week 9, the Ravens have allowed the fifth-highest explosive run rate and the 11th-highest yards after contact per attempt. Opposing running backs have also scored at least 15.1 PPR points in six of their last seven games, showing a clear vulnerability. Pittsburgh’s offense continues to benefit from Warren’s ability to create hidden yards, making him a reliable option in this environment. The combination of poor tackling metrics and susceptibility to explosive plays gives Warren real upside. He should be viewed as a strong RB2 in fantasy football this week. With his efficiency and matchup advantage, Warren is a recommended start across formats.
Running Backs to Sit
Woody Marks HOU
Woody Marks has taken over Houston’s backfield in usage, but that role has not translated into meaningful fantasy football production. He has scored fewer than eight fantasy points in three straight games and four of his last five despite handling consistent workloads. Marks has also been virtually absent in the passing game, recording just one target in three straight contests, which removes a major part of his appeal. Even with at least 17 touches in each of his last three games, he has failed to turn volume into efficiency. Since Week 10, he has been the RB36 in fantasy points per game while averaging 67.1% of snaps, 18.1 touches, and 67.1 total yards. His workload suggests RB2 usage, but his fantasy output aligns more with a middling RB3.
This week’s matchup against Kansas City only amplifies the concerns surrounding Marks. Since Week 9, the Chiefs rank eighth-fewest in rushing yards allowed per game and ninth-best in stuff rate, while also limiting explosive plays. They have also allowed the 11th-fewest yards after contact per attempt, making life difficult for backs who rely on yards created beyond the line of scrimmage. Kansas City sits inside the top 10 in fantasy points allowed per game to running backs, tightening the margin for Marks to produce. Given the declining passing-game work, he becomes overly touchdown-dependent in a matchup that rarely allows scores on the ground. The workload is appealing, but the environment is not. Fantasy managers should view Marks as a risky flex rather than a starting option in Week 14.
Kareem Hunt KC
Kareem Hunt maintained his lead-back role last week despite Isiah Pacheco’s return, handling 14 carries for 58 yards and adding a catch for 22 yards on two targets. He posted a 63.6% snap rate, logged 15 touches, and collected 70 total yards while playing 75% of the red-zone snaps. It was the first week since Week 7 he failed to score a touchdown, which is a major concern given his reliance on red-zone opportunities. Among 55 qualifying backs, Hunt ranks 42nd in missed tackle rate and 27th in yards after contact per attempt, signaling middling efficiency. His fantasy output remains tied closely to touchdowns, and with Pacheco expected to see more work, his ceiling becomes even more fragile. Kansas City’s offensive line injuries also impact running efficiency in critical spots. Hunt’s reliance on volume and scoring makes him volatile in fantasy football formats.
Houston’s run defense presents a difficult matchup for Hunt to overcome, especially given the likely increase in Pacheco’s involvement. Since Week 9, the Texans have allowed the fifth-fewest rushing yards per game, the lowest missed tackle rate, and the sixth-lowest rushing success rate. Their ability to limit both yards before and after contact has made them one of the toughest units to run against. Houston has also allowed the tenth-fewest yards after contact per attempt, which directly combats Hunt’s limited yard-creation. With Pacheco back, the workload could shift at any moment, making Hunt even more touchdown-dependent. Fantasy managers should treat him as a low-end flex at best. In a week filled with must-win matchups, Hunt is better left on the bench.
Kenneth Walker SEA
Kenneth Walker enters Week 14 as a name fantasy football managers are being told to start, but the underlying metrics tell a different story. He ranks 29th in opportunity share, 51st in points per opportunity, and sits 31st in total touchdowns among running backs. Walker has scored just one touchdown since Week 4 and has only two games over 13 fantasy points during that stretch. Zach Charbonnet continues to be heavily involved in scoring areas and ranks top 10 in red zone touches, consistently siphoning off Walker’s best opportunities. Last week’s blowout skewed snap counts, but Walker played just one of six red-zone snaps in the first half, a troubling trend that persists. Despite ranking second in explosive run rate and fifth in missed tackle rate among 55 backs, the usage simply isn’t aligning with the efficiency.
This week’s matchup against Atlanta appears strong on paper, but the usage concerns outweigh the defensive vulnerabilities. Since Week 9, the Falcons have allowed the fifth-most rushing yards per game, the ninth-highest rushing success rate, and the 13th-most yards before contact per attempt. Walker’s recent involvement in the passing game has helped his floor, nine catches for 92 yards on 11 targets across his last three games, but that doesn’t fully offset the red-zone issues. Charbonnet continues to dominate close-range opportunities, making Walker heavily dependent on big plays. While he has three straight games with at least 10.4 PPR points, the ceiling remains capped in this role. In a crucial fantasy football week, trusting modest usage with touchdown volatility is a dangerous proposition. Walker is better viewed as a safe flex rather than an automatic start.
Wide Receivers to Start
Christian Watson GB
Christian Watson has emerged as Green Bay’s clear WR1 since Week 11 and has taken over the passing game following Tucker Kraft’s season-ending injury. During that stretch, he leads the team with an 82.4% route share, a 28.2% target share, 58.3 receiving yards per game, 2.50 yards per route run, and a 36% first-read share. He has also produced 17 targets over his last two matchups with Minnesota and Detroit, including a strong 10-target performance against the Lions that resulted in four catches for 80 yards and a touchdown on Thanksgiving. Watson has now scored at least 18.3 PPR points in two of his last three games, showcasing the type of ceiling that aligns perfectly with late-season fantasy football needs. Over the past month, the usage, efficiency, and deep involvement all point toward Watson as a strong start in Week 14.
Watson’s matchup this week sets up extremely well, as Chicago has allowed the most receiving yards to outside receivers since Week 9. The Bears have also given up the second-most yards on deep targets to perimeter wide receivers in that same span, which plays directly into Watson’s strengths as a vertical playmaker. Chicago ranks ninth in most fantasy points allowed to receivers, with 14 different wideouts scoring at least 12.2 PPR points against them this season. Watson has historically performed well in this matchup, and the added motivation of facing the team he tore his ACL against may amplify his energy in this spot. With the Bears struggling to contain perimeter playmakers, Watson carries legitimate upside for fantasy football lineups. He should be confidently used as a WR2 across all formats.
Jakobi Meyers JAC
Jakobi Meyers has taken on a larger role in Jacksonville’s passing offense over the past month, highlighted by his strong Week 13 performance, where he posted a 22.2% target share, 90 receiving yards, and 3.10 yards per route. His performance resulted in the WR11 for the week. Since Week 11, Meyers has averaged 68 receiving yards per game and has a 27.8% first-read share. Over that three-game span, he has drawn four red zone targets and has at least 11.4 PPG in every game, which has been a nice bump from his usage on the Raiders. His chemistry with the offense is growing each week, and his overall usage paints him as a steady fantasy football option. With his recent involvement and efficiency, Meyers deserves start consideration in Week 14.
The matchup also works in his favor, as the Colts rank eighth in most fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers. Indianapolis has allowed the 15th-most PPR points per target and the 13th-most receiving yards per game to perimeter receivers, which aligns with where Meyers runs most of his routes. With Parker Washington trending toward missing this game and Sauce Gardner unavailable, Meyers could see a bump in target concentration. The Colts have also allowed 12 receivers to score at least 12.9 PPR points this season, giving him both a floor and a ceiling worth betting on. While Brian Thomas Jr. remains a complementary option, Meyers has been the more consistent performer and the safer fantasy football start. His route efficiency and red zone involvement provide a strong foundation for production in this matchup. Fantasy managers can trust him as a reliable WR2 or WR3 this week.
Adonai Mitchell NYJ
Adonai Mitchell finally delivered the breakout game his underlying usage had been hinting at for several weeks, finishing last week as the WR5 in fantasy football. He posted an impressive 36.4% target share, 102 receiving yards, 2.83 yards per route run, and a 50% first-read share. Mitchell also earned two red zone targets and two deep targets, showing involvement at all levels of the field. Since Week 11, he has operated as the Jets’ clear WR1 with a 28.4% target share, a 61.4% air-yard share, and a 41.8% first-read share. Across that span, he has also seen four red zone targets and seven deep targets, reinforcing his high-value opportunity role. Mitchell now has 25 targets in his three games with the Jets, highlighted by his eight-catch, 102-yard, one-touchdown performance on 12 targets against Atlanta. His efficiency, involvement, and role all point toward sustainable fantasy football value moving forward.
Mitchell draws a favorable matchup in Week 14, as the Dolphins have allowed the ninth-most PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers since Week 9. Miami has also surrendered six receivers with at least 11.4 PPR points and five touchdowns over their past four games. With Tyrod Taylor continuing to pepper Mitchell with targets, his volume should once again be strong in a game where New York may need to push the ball. The Dolphins’ aggressive coverage tendencies often lead to downfield opportunities, which plays directly into Mitchell’s high air-yard role. This matchup is also shaping up to be competitive, increasing the likelihood of sustained passing volume. Given his recent rise in usage and the defensive weaknesses he will face, Mitchell is a strong WR3 with upside. He belongs in the start conversation for Week 14.
Wide Receivers to Sit
Deebo Samuel WAS
Deebo Samuel has been productive at times this season, but his overall fantasy football consistency has taken a hit with the return of Terry McLaurin. He posted 11.1 PPR points in Week 13 with five catches for 64 yards on seven targets, but McLaurin overshadowed him with a 14-target, 22.6-point performance. Samuel has now scored 11.1 PPR points or fewer in three straight games alongside McLaurin, making his weekly reliability harder to trust. On the season, Samuel remains the WR15 in fantasy points per game and has accumulated six deep targets and ten red zone targets. In his last two outings, he finished as the WR5 and WR32, showing the volatility that comes with his role. Despite the talent and efficiency, Samuel’s weekly volume remains inconsistent enough to lean toward sit territory.
This matchup presents additional challenges, as Minnesota ranks second in fewest fantasy points allowed to wide receivers. No receiver has scored a touchdown against Minnesota in the past four games, and no receiver has hit double-digit PPR points in the past three weeks. They have allowed the 12th-most PPR points per target to slot receivers since Week 9, but the overall matchup remains extremely tough. With McLaurin absorbing a large portion of the passing volume, Samuel becomes a risky fantasy football start. His efficiency helps, but the combination of teammate competition and a difficult defense lowers his ceiling and floor. He is best suited as a WR3 in deeper formats this week, making him a sit in most standard leagues.
Brian Thomas Jr JAC
Brian Thomas Jr. is an easy bench this week after another quiet performance that showed no signs of a breakout. Despite returning to a strong 78% route share, he earned just a 3-target day and finished with only 28 yards, his third straight game under 10 fantasy points and part of a larger trend where he’s produced a combined 5-83-0 since returning. He’s clearly playing behind Jakobi Meyers, who has taken over as the preferred secondary option, leaving Thomas as an inconsistent, low-volume WR who hasn’t finished inside the top 30 in any week but one. At some point, a slow stretch becomes a bad season, and Thomas has hit that point.
His matchup only makes things worse. Indianapolis has quietly been one of the toughest defenses against wide receivers since Week 9, allowing the eighth-fewest yards, just one touchdown, and ranking top-10 in nearly every deep-passing metric, including the 13th-lowest deep completion rate and third-fewest deep passing scores. That directly caps Thomas’ only real path to upside, considering he posted a 16.0 aDOT last week and needed a deep heave to pay off. Could he connect on one? Sure. but there’s nothing in his usage, efficiency, or matchup that makes that a bet worth taking. Until he proves he can earn meaningful targets and produce, he belongs on the bench.
DK Metcalf PIT
DK Metcalf has fallen well short of expectations this season, entering Week 14 as the WR32 in fantasy points per game. He still holds an impressive 21% target share, 1.79 yards per route run, and a 26.9% first-read share. Metcalf has nine red zone targets and 13 deep targets on the year, but his recent production has been disappointing. With Aaron Rodgers struggling through injuries, Metcalf has not topped 50 receiving yards since Week 8. Over the last seven games, he has scored single-digit fantasy points in five of them and has only two touchdowns in that span. His deep involvement has dried up, with just one deep target catch and only three end-zone targets during that stretch. With declining usage and efficiency, Metcalf has become a far less reliable fantasy football option.
This week’s matchup against Baltimore is a challenging one despite the Ravens’ reputation for giving up occasional big games. Since Week 9, Baltimore has allowed the third-fewest receiving yards to outside receivers and the second-fewest PPR points per target. With Metcalf running 84% of his routes from the perimeter, he will be facing the most restrictive area of the Ravens’ defense. Coming off a three-catch, 32-yard outing and with Rodgers continuing to struggle, his ceiling remains limited. Metcalf is best viewed as a low-end WR3, making him a sit in most fantasy football lineups.
Tight Ends to Start
Brenton Strange JAC
Brenton Strange has delivered strong production since returning from his hip injury, scoring at least 13 fantasy points in both games. He has finished as a top-seven tight end in each of those two weeks and has scored fewer than 9.9 points in only two of seven games this season. His connection with Trevor Lawrence continues to grow, and his efficiency metrics support his breakout. Since Week 12, Strange has posted a 15.8% target share, 69 receiving yards per game, and a 15.4% first-read share. He also picked up one red-zone target and four deep targets over this stretch. Strange enters Week 14 with four straight healthy games of at least 10.5 PPR points.
Strange gets a premium matchup against the Colts, who have allowed the second-most receiving yards and fifth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends. Indianapolis has also given up 10+ PPR points to seven different tight ends, making this one of the softest spots on the Week 14 slate. If Parker Washington misses the game, Strange’s target share should rise even further and jump his points into the 20 range. With strong efficiency, dependable volume, and a dream matchup, Strange is a locked-in top-10 tight end. He carries legitimate top-five upside this week.
Juwan Johnson NO
Juwan Johnson has taken on a larger role since Tyler Shough became the starter, earning a 17.1% target share during that stretch. He has averaged 59 receiving yards per game and a 20.3% first-read share. Johnson has also been the TE5 in fantasy points per game since Week 10, solidifying his weekly role in fantasy lineups. Even in last week’s quieter outing, he still commanded nine targets, which shows how stable his volume is. He has scored at least 10.6 PPR points in three of his four games with Shough. His consistent usage gives him one of the safest floors among streaming tight ends.
Johnson now faces Tampa Bay, a defense that allows the seventh-most receiving touchdowns to tight ends. The Buccaneers have limited yardage but consistently struggle in the red zone, which boosts Johnson’s scoring potential. He produced 5 catches for 53 yards on eight targets against them back in Week 8. Tampa Bay has also allowed 14.1+ points to tight ends in back-to-back games. Johnson’s volume should again remain strong, especially given his recent usage. He is a clear top-10 tight end for Week 14.
Kyle Pitts ATL
Kyle Pitts is coming off a strong Week 13 performance where he caught seven passes for 82 yards on eight targets. His role has grown with Kirk Cousins under center, and he has now led the team in targets in both games Cousins has started. Pitts benefited from Drake London being out, but his involvement was too strong to ignore. Even before last week, Pitts consistently ranked among the leaders in air yards and valuable intermediate targets. London missing practice again elevates Pitts’ outlook even more for Week 14. His strong usage makes him a high-end option at a thin fantasy position.
Pitts gets one of the best matchups of the week against Seattle, which has allowed the third-most fantasy points to tight ends. The Seahawks have been especially vulnerable since Week 9, giving up the second-most receiving yards to the position. Atlanta is likely to be forced into more passing volume while trailing the Seahawks’ high-powered offense. Even if London returns, Pitts projects to remain heavily involved in the passing game. Seattle’s weakness over the middle aligns perfectly with Pitts’ skill set. He should be treated as a top-10 tight end with real top-end potential.
Tight Ends to Sit
Dallas Goedert PHI
Dallas Goedert has struggled for several weeks, averaging just 3.8 targets, 2.7 catches, and 27 yards per game since Week 7. He hasn’t reached 50 receiving yards once during that span and has scored fewer than five points in three straight games. Goedert’s current role leaves him extremely touchdown dependent, which is not ideal in this offense right now. Although he maintains a 17.2% target share, his efficiency has dipped to 36.6 yards per game and 1.33 yards per route run. He hasn’t found the end zone since Week 8, further limiting his ceiling. Goedert has not posted a TE1 finish since Week 8.
The Chargers present one of the toughest matchups for fantasy tight ends this week. They have allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points and sixth-fewest yards to the position while facing the fourth-fewest targets overall. Only four tight ends have hit double-digit PPR points against them all season, and all four required heavy volume. While Goedert was a touchdown machine to open the season, his reduced role in this passing game has resulted in inconsistent production. His role is simply too small to trust in starting lineups. Goedert should be benched in most formats for Week 14.
Oronde Gadsden LAC
Oronde Gadsden has not looked the same since his Week 10 knee injury, scoring fewer than five PPR points in each of his past two games. His snap share dropped to 70% last week, which is his lowest rate in a healthy game since Week 5. He also saw just two targets in Week 13, signaling a concerning dip in involvement. Over the longer stretch since Week 6, he has delivered good usage with a 17.2% target share and 65.4 yards per game. He has also provided strong efficiency with 2.30 yards per route run and a 21.3% first-read share. Despite the season-long profile, the recent drop-off is impossible to ignore.
Gadsden now faces a Philadelphia defense that has been one of the best units in the league against tight ends. The Eagles have allowed the second-fewest receiving yards, just three touchdowns, and the fourth-fewest fantasy points to the position. Their heavy two-high usage has limited explosive plays and funneled targets away from tight ends. Philadelphia’s scheme is extremely difficult for tight ends who rely on intermediate and seam routes. Gadsden’s recent decrease in snaps and targets makes this matchup even more problematic. He should be avoided in all but the deepest formats.
TJ Hockenson MIN
T.J. Hockenson posted 6 catches for 59 yards last week, but it was his first double-digit point game since Week 7. His production has been inconsistent, especially in games started by J.J. McCarthy. In McCarthy’s six starts, Hockenson has four or fewer targets in five of those contests. His best receiving output in those games is only 39 yards, and his fantasy finishes have suffered. The efficiency metrics reflect the struggle: 13.8% target share, 17.3 yards per game, 0.75 yards per route run, and a 13% first-read share. He also has just one red-zone target from McCarthy this year.
Washington has allowed the eighth-most receiving yards and fourth-most fantasy points to tight ends, but their matchups have largely come against aggressive passing offenses. The Vikings have been extremely conservative with McCarthy, which limits Hockenson’s path to volume. His current role is too small to count on for meaningful production. Minnesota is also leaning more on its running game behind a shifting offensive identity. Even with a favorable statistical matchup, Hockenson’s usage caps his ceiling. He profiles as a low-end TE2 who should be benched this week.
DEF to Start
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay enters Week 14 as a strong streaming option after dominating New Orleans in Week 8 with five sacks, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and a defensive touchdown. The Saints remain a favorable opponent, having committed at least one turnover in seven straight games and allowing nine sacks in their last two matchups. Tyler Shough has also thrown an interception in each of his past two outings, adding even more turnover potential for this defense. New Orleans has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to opposing defenses, with the last two DSTs scoring 16 and 11 points. Tampa’s ceiling is among the highest on the slate after already posting 26 fantasy points in the first meeting between these teams. Even if that performance isn’t replicated, the matchup gives the Buccaneers top-five upside this week.
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland is positioned for a bounce-back spot with Myles Garrett chasing the single-season sack record and facing a Titans offense that collapses under pressure. Tennessee allows sacks at the second-highest rate in football and has committed 16 giveaways, putting Cam Ward in consistently difficult passing situations. Ward has been brought down a league-high 48 times, and the Titans also rank last in both scoring offense and total yards per game. The Browns had three or more sacks in five straight games before last week’s dud, showing how disruptive they’ve been all season. Tennessee is allowing the second-most fantasy points to defenses, making this matchup as favorable as any on the board. With elite pass-rush talent and an opponent prone to mistakes, Cleveland’s defense carries tremendous upside for Week 14.
Washington Commanders
Washington becomes an unexpected streaming candidate thanks to a matchup with a Minnesota offense that has struggled all season. The Vikings are allowing the most fantasy points per game to defenses while also taking sacks at the second-highest rate in the league. J.J. McCarthy has posted a 57.9 passer rating with a 54.1% completion rate and has thrown 10 interceptions in six starts, including multiple picks in three straight games. Minnesota’s offense ranks bottom five in scoring and the bottom ten in total yardage while also owning the league’s worst turnover differential at -15. Their offensive line has also been within the top five in sacks allowed this year. With opponents recently scoring 30 and 18 fantasy points against the Vikings, Washington has legitimate week-winning upside.
DEF to Sit
Buffalo Bills
Buffalo is an easy defense to avoid this week, given the Bengals’ recent surge and the game’s 53.5 over/under, one of the highest totals on the slate. Joe Burrow’s return sparked a 32-point road performance against Baltimore, demonstrating the offense’s ability to shred even strong defenses. Buffalo’s DST has scored six or fewer fantasy points in four of its last five games and has only reached double digits three times all season. The Bills have recorded just two sacks over their past four games, making it difficult to generate the big plays needed to stay fantasy-relevant. They also allow 22.9 points and 317 yards per game while ranking 20th in yards per play allowed, showing middling defensive efficiency. In what projects as an up-tempo offensive battle, Buffalo carries too low a ceiling to trust in fantasy football lineups.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers’ defense has been a solid streamer the entire year, but this is a matchup to avoid with Philadelphia’s offense. Jalen Hurts has been sacked only twice over the past four games, and the Eagles have turned the ball over just eight times all season. Los Angeles has been solid against the pass but vulnerable against the run, making it a prime spot for Saquon Barkley to have a bounce-back game. Even though the Chargers posted five sacks and an interception last week, the Eagles have allowed the ninth-fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses. Philadelphia’s perimeter weapons also present matchup issues that limit the Chargers’ potential for splash plays. With low turnover expectations and a difficult opponent, the Chargers’ defense should be benched in Week 14.
Kickers to Start
Evan McPherson CIN
Evan McPherson enters Week 14 on a hot streak, converting eight field goals and four PATs over his last two games while drilling three kicks from 50 yards or deeper. He has scored at least eight fantasy points in six straight contests and ranks among the most consistent kickers in football this season. McPherson has connected on 23 of 26 field-goal attempts (88.5%) and a perfect 27 of 27 on extra points. Two of the past three kickers facing Buffalo have made multiple field goals, further boosting his outlook. The weather should be monitored in Buffalo, but McPherson has shown the leg strength and accuracy to overcome difficult conditions. With Cincinnati’s offense generating steady scoring opportunities, he carries clear top-five upside this week.
Tyler Loop BAL
Tyler Loop had a quiet performance last week with just two fantasy points, but his recent track record remains strong with at least 11 points in four of his previous five games. Pittsburgh has allowed 9.1 fantasy points per game to kickers, with eight opponents reaching at least eight points and five topping double digits. Loop has connected on 22 of 24 field-goal attempts (91.7%) and 29 of 30 extra points. He has been automatic from inside 50 yards, going 21-for-21. Prior to Week 13, he had drilled seven field goals across the previous two contests, highlighting his strong role in Baltimore’s offense. With steady volume and a favorable matchup, Loop remains a strong starting option.
Kickers to Sit
Harrison Butker KC
Harrison Butker is a fade this week against a Texans defense that has allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing kickers and a league-low 65% field-goal conversion rate. Houston has also surrendered just 17 PATs, giving kickers minimal scoring opportunities all season. Butker has scored more than eight fantasy points only once since Week 4 and has two games in his last five without even attempting a field goal. His season totals include 21 makes on 24 field-goal attempts (87.5%) and 28-of-32 on extra points. Despite the Chiefs’ offensive reputation, Butker’s usage has plummeted in recent weeks. With a difficult matchup and declining opportunity, he should be benched in Week 14.
Jake Elliott PHI
Jake Elliott has struggled this season, scoring fewer than eight fantasy points in eight of 12 games and totaling just five combined points over the last two weeks. The Chargers have allowed fewer than seven fantasy points per game to kickers at SoFi Stadium, limiting Elliott’s scoring upside. He has made only 12 of 16 field-goal attempts (75%) this season while converting 30 of 31 extra points. His 66 actual points and roughly 69 fantasy points average out to just 5.8 per game, placing him near the bottom of startable options. Philadelphia’s offense often finishes drives with touchdowns, reducing his field-goal opportunities even further. With both poor recent form and a tough matchup, Elliott is an easy sit for Week 14.
