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
Brock Purdy SF
Brock Purdy has been steadily productive since returning from injury, delivering the kind of weekly consistency fantasy football managers value this time of year. His workload has remained stable, and San Francisco’s offense has looked increasingly in rhythm as his supporting cast has gotten healthier. Purdy’s efficiency has been strong throughout the season, with multiple games falling in that safe 17-to-19 point range that keeps fantasy lineups afloat. The 49ers have also leaned into a balanced approach that allows him to operate comfortably within structure. With improved health and a full arsenal of weapons around him, Purdy looks positioned to take another step forward. The matchup further enhances the environment he’ll be working in, helping lift his ceiling beyond what we’ve seen in recent weeks.
That brings him into start territory for Week 15, as the Titans present one of the most favorable setups for opposing quarterbacks. Tennessee has been among the most vulnerable pass defenses in football since Week 10, ranking top six in pass yards and passing touchdowns allowed while also sitting top four in passer rating allowed. They were just carved up by Shedeur Sanders for more than 28 fantasy football points and four total touchdowns, signaling that explosive performances against them aren’t outliers. Purdy already carries a safe weekly floor, but this matchup elevates his ceiling into top-five potential. Six of the past seven quarterbacks to face Tennessee have delivered at least 18 points, and their struggles align perfectly with Purdy’s offense trending in the right direction. In a week where managers need reliability with upside, he profiles as a strong fantasy football start across all formats.
Jaxson Dart NYG
Jaxson Dart enters Week 15 having shown strong command of the Giants offense since stepping into the starting role, even if last week’s fantasy output dipped below his usual standards. His dual-threat ability continues to give him a stable foundation, as he has remained committed to running despite a quieter passing performance. Before last week, he had averaged 21.7 fantasy PPG as a starter and showcased reliable volume both through the air and on the ground. Dart’s confidence as a runner and willingness to push the ball downfield have helped preserve his weekly value. The bye week should also allow the offense to reset and get him back into a comfortable rhythm. Considering the context and his underlying usage, Dart still profiles as a quarterback capable of bouncing back quickly.
That brings him into start consideration this week against a Commanders defense that has struggled badly against quarterbacks. Washington has allowed 18 or more fantasy points to the position nine different times, and just let J.J. McCarthy produce over 20 points with three passing touchdowns. They rank top five in passing yards, passing touchdowns, and fantasy points per game allowed to quarterbacks, consistently giving up explosive plays. Dart has finished with at least 18 points in six of his past eight fully healthy outings, and this matchup aligns well with his strengths as both a passer and runner. Given how vulnerable Washington is on the back end, Dart projects as a top-10 fantasy football start this week. His rushing floor, paired with the Commanders’ defensive issues, makes him an appealing option in all scoring formats.
Trevor Lawrence JAC
Trevor Lawrence has grown increasingly comfortable within Liam Coen’s offense over the past several weeks, rounding into form at the right time for fantasy football managers. Since Week 9, he has performed as the QB9 while delivering multiple QB1 finishes, highlighted by sharp accuracy and improved decision-making. His efficiency metrics tell the story: he ranks ninth in yards per attempt, 14th in highly accurate throw rate, and 12th in catchable target rate among qualifying quarterbacks in that span. Lawrence has also quietly gotten better at leveraging his mobility to extend plays without forcing throws this season. Jacksonville’s offense has leaned on him more as the season progresses, and his timing with the receiving corps has noticeably improved as they are close to healthy. Even minor injury concerns this week appear minimal based on his practice participation and media availability.
All of that leads him into start territory against a Jets defense that has not performed nearly as well against quarterbacks lately. Since Week 10, New York has allowed the ninth-highest success rate per dropback, the ninth-highest EPA per dropback, and the 12th-highest passer rating, signaling a clear regression from their early-season form before the trade deadline. Lawrence has scored at least 18 fantasy football points in three straight games, giving him strong momentum entering this matchup. While the Jaguars’ run game may find success, Lawrence’s efficiency and touchdown production over the last few weeks may be too much to overlook. His combination of accuracy, rhythm, and recent volume keeps him firmly on the QB1 radar. Lawrence should be viewed as a comfortable start with low-end QB1 potential across all leagues.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Caleb Williams CHI
Caleb Williams enters Week 15 coming off another underwhelming fantasy performance, continuing a trend that has made him difficult to trust in consistent lineups. He has failed to reach 15 fantasy points in three of his last four games and five of his last eight, reflecting a concerning floor for a quarterback expected to grow in year one under Ben Johnson. The passing efficiency issues are noticeable, as he ranks 33rd in completion percentage and 23rd in passer rating among qualified quarterbacks. Chicago’s offense has also shifted toward a run-first identity, which limits Williams’ weekly volume and reduces his margin for error. With Rome Odunze potentially sidelined again, his receiving corps may enter this matchup short-handed. The combination of stagnating production, passing inconsistency, and reduced opportunity share creates a fragile setup heading into the week.
Those factors push him firmly into sit territory for Week 15 against the Browns, who remain one of the toughest defenses in fantasy football. Cleveland has allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks and has held five straight passers to 19.3 points or fewer. They carry the second-highest sack rate in the league and have surrendered the fifth-fewest passing yards since Week 10, creating an environment where explosive plays are scarce. Chicago’s run-heavy approach only narrows Williams’ path to value further, especially if the Bears control the game script. With a lower floor than virtually any streaming option this week, Williams should be avoided outside of Superflex formats. He profiles as a clear sit in one-quarterback leagues.
Jacoby Brissett ARI
Jacoby Brissett has been one of the season’s biggest surprises, delivering at least 18 fantasy points in eight straight games while stabilizing Arizona’s offense following Kyler Murray’s injury. His processing has been sharp, his efficiency has held up against strong opponents, and his accuracy has allowed the Cardinals’ offense to find some rhythm in the passing game. Even in tough matchups against teams like the Rams, Seahawks, and Packers, he found ways to produce fantasy-relevant numbers. Arizona’s scheme has leaned heavily on his consistency, and his rapport with the receiving corps has been a major asset. However, the loss of left tackle Paris Johnson looms large heading into this week, reducing protection on Brissett’s blind side. It introduces a new layer of volatility at a time when matchups matter more than ever.
That volatility is one of several reasons he moves into sit territory this week against the Texans, who are the league’s toughest fantasy football matchup for quarterbacks. Houston has allowed the fewest fantasy points, the fewest passing touchdowns, and the fifth-fewest passing yards to the position this season. They’ve intercepted more passes than they’ve allowed touchdowns, joining only the Chargers in that category. Over the last three weeks alone, they held Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes to fewer than nine fantasy points combined, without giving up a single touchdown pass. With Houston’s offense typically playing slow and low-scoring, the chance for garbage-time production is minimal. Brissett remains a viable Superflex option, but in standard formats, he is a recommended sit.
Bo Nix DEN
Bo Nix remains one of the most volatile quarterbacks in fantasy football, with his overall season average buoyed heavily by a massive Week 7 performance. Since Week 8, he has not logged a single QB1 finish, and his weekly production has dipped to 18.4 points or fewer in four straight games. His per-dropback numbers paint a similar picture: while he ranks 12th in highly accurate throw rate, eighth in catchable target rate, and 15th in hero throw rate since Week 9, he still sits 31st in yards per attempt and 31st in passer rating. The disappearance of his rushing floor has also contributed to his decline, as he has managed only 73 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown across his last five outings. The statistical profile continues to point towards volatile outcomes despite the volume for Nix.
That lack of reliable fantasy production makes him a strong sit candidate this week against a tough Packers defense. Since Week 10, Green Bay has allowed the seventh-fewest passing yards, the 11th-lowest success rate per dropback, and the 14th-lowest passer rating while generating one of the league’s highest pressure rates. Only one quarterback has topped 18.9 fantasy football points against them in the past six weeks, despite matchups with Jalen Hurts and Caleb Williams. With Nix failing to score multiple touchdowns since Week 9 and offering almost nothing on the ground, the path to a meaningful fantasy performance is narrow. His perfect record and efficiency against NFC opponents is interesting but not actionable in a matchup this difficult. In one-quarterback leagues, Nix should remain firmly on the bench.
Running Backs to Start
Chris Rodriguez WAS
Chris Rodriguez enters Week 15 with a steadily increasing role and enough rushing volume to keep him in the starting conversation, even if his profile remains touchdown-dependent. Since Week 11, he has averaged 12.3 touches and 59.3 total yards per game, solidifying himself as Washington’s backfield leader. His control of the red-zone work is meaningful, as 64.2% of the running back red-zone carries have gone his way in that span. While he offers virtually nothing as a receiver, with just two targets all season, he has been excellent on the ground. Rodriguez ranks first in yards after contact per attempt among all qualified running backs, showcasing legitimate rushing talent. Even in last week’s 31-0 loss, he still managed 52 yards on 10 carries, demonstrating the team’s commitment to his role. Over his last five games, he has 253 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 54 carries, giving him the kind of consistency that keeps him on the start radar.
That usage sets him up as a strong start this week against the Giants, who remain the worst run defense in the NFL. Since Week 10, New York has allowed the most rushing yards per game, the highest explosive run rate, the third-highest missed tackle rate, and the most yards after contact per attempt. Running backs are averaging a staggering 6.10 yards per carry against them, creating one of the most favorable matchups on the entire Week 15 slate. Rodriguez has also separated from Jacory Croskey-Merritt by earning more touches in three straight weeks, further strengthening his weekly floor. He has delivered at least 52 scrimmage yards or a touchdown in five consecutive games, a level of stability rarely found among waiver-wire options. With elite matchup indicators and a secure rushing role, he should find his way into fantasy football lineups as a clear start this week.
Woody Marks HOU
Woody Marks continues to operate as a heavy-usage option in the Texans’ backfield, offering RB2-level opportunity despite RB3-level fantasy football output. Since Week 10, he has played 71.1% of the snaps while averaging 20 touches and 69 total yards per game, showing a workload that typically yields stronger results. His biggest issue has been touchdowns, as he has only two over his last five games despite consistent volume. Marks remains active in the passing game and functions as Houston’s primary receiving back, which provides a floor even in tougher matchups. The overall offensive ecosystem has held back his ceiling, but the usage itself is strong enough to take seriously. His metrics indicate he’s one score away from turning weekly RB35 finishes into mid-tier RB2 production.
That pushes him into start territory for Week 15 in a premium matchup against a collapsing Cardinals defense. Since Week 10, Arizona has allowed the fifth-highest explosive run rate, the fourth-most rushing yards per game, and the highest missed tackle rate in football. Backfields facing Arizona over the last five weeks have combined for 712 rushing yards, 157 receiving yards, and 10 total touchdowns, highlighting just how friendly the matchup is. Marks just handled 28 touches last week, including 26 carries, and found the end zone despite modest rushing efficiency. With Nick Chubb potentially limited or absent, Marks could again see 20-plus touches in a game environment that heavily favors the run. Six running backs have scored at least 14 PPR points against Arizona over this same stretch, and Marks fits perfectly into that profile. He is a strong fantasy football start and a locked-in RB2 across all formats.
Rico Dowdle CAR
Rico Dowdle heads into Week 15 after another week of impressive per-touch efficiency, even if the snap distribution in Carolina’s backfield continues to fluctuate. He played only 43.5% of the snaps last week but still handled 20 touches and accumulated 79 total yards, showing just how much work the Panthers give him when he’s on the field. Dowdle has significantly outperformed Chuba Hubbard on a per-touch basis all season, ranking 13th in explosive run rate and sixth in yards after contact per attempt among qualifying backs. His touch-per-snap rate was unusually high last week, making it difficult to expect the same workload unless his snap share ticks upward. Even so, Carolina appears comfortable leaning on him as a primary ballcarrier when the offense gets moving. The concern is volatility, but his talent has consistently earned him opportunities despite the snap split.
Those factors move him into starting consideration against a Saints defense that has been far more vulnerable to the run than its reputation suggests. The Saints have allowed an opposing running back to score at least 12.7 PPR points in five straight games, making this an advantageous matchup. Dowdle is expected to remain the lead option in Week 15 and has already had success against New Orleans, posting 18 carries, 53 yards, a touchdown, and three receptions in their Week 10 meeting. Carolina’s backfield may remain a timeshare, but Dowdle’s efficiency and red-zone involvement keep him ahead of Hubbard for starting purposes. He profiles as a strong start and an RB2 this week.
Running Backs to Sit
Omarion Hampton and Kimani Vidal LAC
The Chargers’ backfield is trending toward a true committee, making both Omarion Hampton and Kimani Vidal risky plays heading into Week 15. Hampton returned from injury with 15 touches and 67 total yards, showing solid involvement but not enough volume to trust in a difficult matchup. Vidal maintained his lead role with a 69% snap share and 56.1% route share, but his red-zone usage dipped significantly while Hampton handled five attempts inside the 20. Both players produced respectable yardage last week, yet neither separated from the other in a meaningful way that would increase their reliability. Los Angeles clearly wants to use both backs, which caps the fantasy ceiling for each player. The workload split should become even more evenly distributed as Hampton’s conditioning improves. Because of that split and a brutal matchup, both backs should be viewed as sits in Week 15.
The matchup against Kansas City pushes them further out of startable territory, as the Chiefs have quietly become one of the toughest run defenses in football. Since Week 10, Kansas City has allowed the fifth-fewest rushing yards per game, the third-lowest missed tackle rate, and the fewest yards after contact per attempt. Hampton may see his snap count rise this week, but increased usage does little to help in such a restrictive defensive environment. Vidal, meanwhile, falls into middling FLEX territory at best due to reduced scoring opportunities and a shrinking margin for efficiency. With both backs splitting red-zone touches and early-down work, neither has a stable path to fantasy scoring in this matchup. The Chargers’ offense also remains inconsistent, which further compresses touchdown chances. Both Hampton and Vidal profile as sits this week unless managers are desperate for volume.
Aaron Jones MIN
Aaron Jones enters Week 15 slumping, scoring 8.7 PPR points or fewer in three straight games. Minnesota continues to use Jones and Jordan Mason in tandem, limiting Jones’ ability to command a high-value workload. Since Week 10, Jones has averaged a 57.1% snap rate, 13.4 touches, and only 61.6 total yards per game, well below the expectation for a reliable RB2. His efficiency has plummeted this season, evidenced by a 7% missed tackle rate and just 1.98 yards after contact per attempt. The Vikings appear content deploying him as a lead back despite the efficiency struggles this season. Without consistent red-zone usage or receiving volume on top of the ineffectiveness of breaking off big runs, Jones’ weekly floor has become extremely fragile
Complicating matters further is a difficult matchup against an improving Dallas run defense that has transformed since acquiring Quinnen Williams. Since Week 10, the Cowboys have allowed the second-fewest rushing yards per game, the 12th-fewest yards before contact per attempt, and have posted a top-10 stuff rate. Although Detroit gashed them in Week 14, Dallas had previously shut down Ashton Jeanty, Saquon Barkley, and Kareem Hunt, holding them all to under 100 yards combined. The Vikings will continue rotating backs, and Jones’s lack of efficiency makes that even more concerning. He profiles strictly as a low-end FLEX option, and most fantasy managers should consider alternative choices. With a depressed ceiling and declining role, Jones is firmly a sit this week.
Kenneth Walker SEA
The Seahawks’ backfield continues to frustrate fantasy managers, and Kenneth Walker remains one of the toughest players to trust heading into Week 15. Over the last several games, he has played a 54.1% snap share with a 40.4% route rate and a 9.5% target share, which reflects a lead role but far from a dominating one. Walker has averaged 15 touches and 78.6 total yards since Week 11, but the inconsistent distribution of red-zone work, eight attempts for him versus ten for Zach Charbonnet, creates unpredictable scoring chances. While Walker remains elite in efficiency metrics, ranking top-four in explosive run rate and missed tackle rate, the Seahawks’ inconsistent offensive line frequently neutralizes his strengths. Game script issues and stalled drives have further limited his overall opportunities. He has scored single-digit fantasy points in six of his last nine games, making his weekly floor dangerously low. That workload volatility places him squarely in sit territory this week.
This matchup does him no favors either, as Indianapolis has quietly emerged as a tough run defense. Since Week 10, the Colts have allowed the eighth-lowest missed tackle rate and the sixth-fewest yards after contact per attempt. Walker has struggled to overcome strong defensive fronts this season, and this is another environment in which yardage will likely come at a premium. While Indy has surrendered touchdowns to backs, relying on touchdown luck is a poor approach for a player already stuck in a volatile committee. Walker’s snap share, combined with his inconsistent usage, makes it difficult to start him over more stable alternatives in a tough matchup. Unless fantasy managers lack options, Walker profiles as a sit in Week 15.
Wide Receivers to Start
Terry McLaurin WAS
Terry McLaurin enters Week 15 coming off a down performance against Minnesota, but that matchup was one of the toughest in football for opposing wide receivers. Even with the 7.1-point fantasy output, he still maintained strong involvement, earning six targets despite the game getting out of hand early and Jayden Daniels exiting. Since returning from injury, McLaurin has shown both a ceiling game and a lower-end game, signaling that his weekly role remains stable even if production fluctuates. His chemistry with Marcus Mariota has also been encouraging, as he scored at least 14.4 PPR points in both prior Mariota starts this season. McLaurin continues to dominate first-read usage, accounting for 28 percent of first-read targets since returning. Given the volume and stable role, he remains positioned well going into a much more favorable environment.
That matchup is exactly why he is a strong start this week, as he now faces the Giants, who rank third in most fantasy points allowed to wide receivers. New York has allowed at least 12.9 PPR points to a receiver in every game this season and has struggled heavily against perimeter targets, giving up a top-eight passer rating on out-wide throws. Sixteen different receivers have crossed the 12.5-point threshold against them, which gives McLaurin a clear path to a bounce-back performance. His long-standing dominance against the Giants adds another layer of appeal, averaging 15.5 fantasy points per game in 12 career matchups. With Mariota again under center and the matchup heavily in his favor, McLaurin projects as a strong start and a high-end WR2 this week.
Jakobi Meyers JAC
Jakobi Meyers has stepped into a clear lead role for the Jaguars since being acquired, establishing himself as Trevor Lawrence’s most trusted target. Over his last three games, he has totaled 14 catches for 179 yards and three touchdowns on 22 targets, scoring at least 14.8 PPR points in each outing. Meyers has delivered steady production with strong efficiency, posting 2.29 yards per route run and a nearly 30 percent first-read share since Week 11. His red zone usage has also been notable, with six red zone targets across his past four games. Even in matchups where volume has been modest, his consistency inside scoring areas has kept his fantasy floor intact. Lawrence’s own words reinforce Meyers’ reliability, describing him as “an easy guy to throw to” with clear, predictable routes. Everything about his usage profile signals stability heading into Week 15.
That sets him up as a solid start this week against a Jets defense that has quietly been more vulnerable to perimeter receivers since Week 10. New York ranks 16th in PPR points per target allowed on the perimeter and just gave up a touchdown and 15 fantasy points to Jaylen Waddle last week. The Jaguars move Meyers around enough to avoid static matchups, and his ability to win underneath aligns well with how teams have successfully attacked the Jets recently. Meyers has scored at least 11 fantasy points in four straight games and has surpassed Brian Thomas Jr. as Lawrence’s go-to receiver. Given the recent production, the red zone involvement, and the matchup tilt, he profiles as a high-end WR2 and a confident fantasy football start.
Wan’Dale Robinson NYG
Wan’Dale Robinson has been one of the league’s most underrated receivers, emerging as Jaxson Dart’s top option in the passing game. Over his last five games, he has commanded 53 targets and scored at least 12.2 PPR points in three of them. His role has expanded significantly since November, averaging 10.6 targets per game with at least eight in every contest during that span. Robinson’s volume has been elite for a slot receiver, rooted in a 25.9 percent target share and a 30.9 percent first-read rate in Dart’s starts. His efficiency hasn’t suffered despite the heavy workload, as he continues to create separation at a high level and serve as the primary stabilizer of the Giants’ passing attack. He also showed dependable production back in Week 1 against Washington, despite that being a completely different offensive environment. Everything about his usage suggests his fantasy floor is as strong as it has been all season.
All of that makes him a strong start this week in a matchup against the Commanders, who sit ninth in most fantasy points allowed to receivers. Washington has struggled significantly against slot receivers specifically, ranking sixth-worst in PPR points per target allowed and giving up the third-most receiving yards to slot options since Week 10. Their defensive structure funnels high-percentage throws inside, which aligns perfectly with Robinson’s short-area and intermediate usage. With the Commanders consistently allowing volume-heavy games against WRs, Robinson carries both a strong floor and an elite ceiling in the fantasy playoffs. His rapport with Dart gives him a clear path to double-digit targets once again. He enters Week 15 as a high-end WR2 and a strong fantasy start across all formats.
Wide Receivers to Sit
Zay Flowers BAL
Zay Flowers enters Week 15 coming off a huge rebound performance, posting eight catches for 124 yards on 11 targets against Pittsburgh. His target share remains one of the strongest parts of his profile, as he ranks 11th among all wide receivers in target share this season. Despite the high involvement, touchdown production remains a major issue, with just one score all season and limited red zone usage. His previous matchup against Cincinnati was also one of his worst games of the year, as DJ Turner shadowed him into a 2-catch, 16-yard afternoon. Flowers has struggled against physical coverage at times, and Cincinnati’s game plan in the first meeting showed a clear willingness to remove him from the offense. The volume has been good, but his year-long trend of inefficient fantasy conversion is difficult to ignore. That overall volatility sets up a concerning outlook heading into this particular matchup.
That places Flowers firmly on the sit list this week, as Cincinnati is allowing the fewest fantasy points to wide receivers over the last five weeks. The Bengals have not allowed any WR to reach double digits in PPR across their last four games. DJ Turner has been one of the league’s most effective shadow corners this season, and he is expected to follow Flowers again. Even more troubling is that despite Cincinnati’s defense giving up big yardage between the 20s, opposing offenses simply avoid testing Turner, funneling production elsewhere. Flowers’ low touchdown total and limited red zone involvement give him almost no margin for error in this type of matchup. With the floor significantly outweighing the ceiling this week, he profiles as a sit in all but three-receiver formats.
Christian Watson GB
Christian Watson has been on a touchdown surge lately, finding the end zone five times in his past four games and serving as the Packers’ most explosive receiving threat. His underlying usage has remained stable during this stretch, earning a 21.6 percent target share and 61.8 receiving yards per game since Week 10. His yards per route run during that span sits at 2.49, reflecting strong efficiency when targeted. However, volume inconsistency persists, as he has been held under 60 yards in four of seven games since returning from his ACL injury. Watson still has five games this season with five or fewer targets, creating a volatile weekly profile. His big-play ability keeps him in the mix, but his reliance on touchdowns to produce meaningful fantasy scores is a concern. Against most opponents, his athleticism and role can overcome volatility, but this week brings a very different challenge.
That challenge makes him a sit this week, as he is expected to draw Patrick Surtain II in shadow coverage against Denver. Surtain is one of the toughest matchups in football and has only allowed 1 touchdown this year. Denver also uses two-high shells at one of the league’s highest rates, and Watson ranks second on the team in target share against two-high looks but still struggles for volume consistency. The Broncos have allowed the sixth-most yards to perimeter receivers since Week 8, but simultaneously the 14th-fewest PPR points per target, indicating that efficiency against them is limited despite yardage totals. Watson’s outlook becomes even riskier if Surtain follows him on more than 80 percent of his routes, which is the expectation this week. He remains a touchdown-dependent option and profiles as a sit.
Michael Pittman Jr IND
Michael Pittman Jr. enters Week 15 with uncertainty at quarterback, as the Colts could turn to Riley Leonard or newly signed Philip Rivers with Daniel Jones injured. His overall WR9 season is visually impressive, but the recent production trend tells a different story as the Indianapolis offense has regressed sharply. Pittman’s usage remains high, but the efficiency has cratered, and the offense has struggled to sustain drives with the injuries piling up. The fallout from Jones’ Achilles tear has significantly lowered Pittman’s floor, given the instability at the position. Even his high target games have led to middling fantasy outputs, as seen when Leonard fed him 10 targets but failed to convert them into meaningful production. The momentum of Indianapolis’ season has shifted rapidly, and the offensive structure no longer supports reliable WR1 fantasy scoring. All of this creates a challenging setup heading into Seattle.
That setup makes Pittman a clear sit in Week 15, as the Seahawks have allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to receivers this season and have become one of the NFL’s most efficient pass defenses since Week 10. In that span, they’ve permitted a 49.7 passer rating and just a 46 percent completion rate to opposing wide receivers, both the best marks in the league. Seattle has surrendered only three WR touchdowns since Week 7 and has not allowed any receiver to reach 90 yards in seven straight games. Pittman’s production also collapsed the last time he faced a top defense, posting just 2.3 fantasy points against Houston. With quarterback uncertainty, a brutal matchup, and an offense trending in the wrong direction, his floor is too low for the fantasy playoffs. He profiles as a sit and should only be considered in deeper three-receiver formats.
Tight Ends to Start
Harold Fannin Jr CLE
Harold Fannin Jr. enters Week 15 playing his best football of the season, coming off a dominant 8-catch, 114-yard, 1-touchdown performance against Tennessee. He has now delivered two straight games with at least 11.3 PPR points, showing immediate chemistry with Shedeur Sanders under center. Across Sanders’ three starts, Fannin has commanded 22 targets, turning them into 15 receptions for 197 yards and two touchdowns. His usage metrics reinforce his rise, as he has posted a 23.9% target share, 65.7 yards per game, 2.43 yards per route run, and a 25% first-read share in that span. The rookie has also begun to emerge as a reliable chain-mover with improved route efficiency. With David Njoku dealing with a knee issue, Fannin’s role could expand even further this week. Given both volume and efficiency, he is trending firmly in TE1 territory.
This matchup pushes him into clear start consideration as the Bears have struggled all season against fantasy football tight ends. Chicago ranks 12th-worst in receiving yards allowed per game and 13th-worst in fantasy points allowed to the position. Eight tight ends have posted at least 9 PPR points against them, and their defensive structure frequently leaves the middle of the field exposed. Fannin already has top-five upside based on recent performance and should again see strong target volume if Njoku sits. His athleticism and growing involvement in the passing game make him a high-ceiling option in all formats. With Chicago struggling to defend tight ends, Fannin is a locked-in TE1 and a must-start for Week 15.
Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely BAL
The Ravens’ tight end duo enters Week 15 in one of the best fantasy football setups of the season, as Cincinnati has been shredded by the position all year. The Bengals have allowed the most catches, yards, touchdowns, and fantasy points per game to tight ends, and the gap between them and the next-worst team isn’t close. When these teams met two weeks ago, Andrews and Likely were Baltimore’s leading pass-catchers, both benefiting from heavy involvement. Likely has been especially productive lately, earning more targets than Andrews over the past three games while also gaining more yards and scoring more touchdowns. Despite two potential touchdowns being wiped out in recent weeks—a fumble into the end zone and an overturned score—his explosiveness has been obvious. Andrews remains the safer-floor option and continues to operate as a reliable red-zone threat. Both players have shown strong chemistry with Lamar Jackson during this recent stretch.
All of this makes both Andrews and Likely strong start options for Week 15 against the league’s worst tight end defense. Cincinnati has already allowed 15 touchdowns to tight ends and an embarrassing 13 players to score at least 10.7 PPR points. Their coverage breakdowns in the middle of the field have been consistent all season, and Baltimore is well-positioned to exploit that weakness again. Likely projects as the higher-upside play due to athleticism and recent target volume, placing him firmly inside the top 10 at the position. Andrews can also be confidently started in fantasy football lineups thanks to his touchdown equity and stable usage. With such a favorable matchup, both Ravens tight ends belong in starting lineups across all scoring formats.
Dalton Kincaid BUF
Dalton Kincaid returned from a multi-week absence in Week 14 and immediately reasserted himself as a valuable piece of Buffalo’s passing attack. Despite limited overall snaps, he led all Bills tight ends in routes run and converted five targets into a touchdown and 14 fantasy points. He has now posted at least 14 PPR points in five of his nine healthy games this season, showing a strong rapport with Josh Allen when on the field. Earlier in the year, he torched the Patriots for six catches and 108 yards, one of his best games of the season. While his 41.7% route share last week wasn’t ideal, his 27.8% first-read share indicates he remains a primary read when on the field. Kincaid’s knee and hamstring issues may limit his snap ceiling, but his target concentration gives him weekly TE1 potential. Even with inconsistent playing time, his role in high-leverage situations remains valuable.
This matchup puts him in start territory again, as New England has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends. Seven tight ends have scored at least 11.3 PPR points against the Patriots, and their defensive structure has consistently allowed openings down the seams. Buffalo–New England games have also trended toward elevated scoring, increasing touchdown opportunities. Kincaid remains a slightly volatile option due to his limited snap share, but the matchup and his involvement near the goal line make him worth starting. In fantasy football playoff weeks, ceiling matters, and Kincaid brings real upside in this spot. He should be viewed as a mid-range TE1 with strong scoring potential in Week 15.
Tight Ends to Sit
Dallas Goedert PHI
Dallas Goedert is coming off his best game in weeks with an 8-catch, 78-yard outing against the Chargers, but his recent track record raises real concerns. Prior to that, he posted 8.3 PPR points or fewer in four straight games and has not scored a touchdown since Week 8. Philadelphia’s passing offense has been inconsistent all season, and Goedert’s role has largely depended on game script rather than stable weekly usage. Even with last week’s spike, his target volume has fluctuated significantly, making him difficult to trust in critical fantasy football matchups. His underlying numbers remain modest with an 18.1% target share and 40.1 yards per game. With the Eagles’ offense struggling to find rhythm, Goedert’s volatility becomes an issue for fantasy managers.
Those concerns move him into sit territory for Week 15, especially given the matchup with the Raiders. Las Vegas has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to tight ends and has been elite in coverage since Week 10, giving up the fewest receiving yards to the position during that span. Only three tight ends have scored touchdowns against them all season, and most opposing players at the position have failed to reach even modest production. With the Eagles spreading the ball around and leaning more on their receivers, Goedert’s path to a meaningful fantasy output is extremely thin. Streaming options with better matchups offer higher floors and comparable ceilings.
Hunter Henry NE
Hunter Henry enters Week 15 playing well, delivering at least 11.3 PPR points in back-to-back games and reestablishing himself as a key part of New England’s passing game. He leads the team with 16 red-zone targets and has produced four TE1 weeks this season, showing strong involvement in scoring situations. His efficiency profile is respectable with a 17% target share, 46.9 receiving yards per game, 1.76 yards per route run, and solid first-read usage. Despite that, his past performance against Buffalo was underwhelming, as he managed only 6.6 PPR points in their Week 5 meeting. While his recent resurgence is encouraging, it may not be sustainable against stronger defenses. Fantasy football managers should be cautious about chasing points given the matchup ahead.
That matchup firmly pushes Henry into sit consideration, as the Bills have been the best team in the NFL at defending tight ends this season. Buffalo allows the fewest fantasy points per game to the position and has surrendered only two touchdowns to tight ends all year. Outside of Travis Kelce and Mike Gesicki, no tight end has reached 10 PPR points against them. With such an unfavorable defensive environment, Henry’s usual red-zone upside becomes significantly muted. Although he may remain involved, the matchup makes him a high-risk play with a very low floor. He should be benched in Week 15 wherever possible.
Oronde Gadsden LAC
Oronde Gadsden enters Week 15 in a slump, coming off a season-low performance with just one catch for seven yards against Philadelphia. He has now failed to score more than 6.1 PPR points in four straight games, and his touchdown drought extends back to Week 8. The Chargers’ passing attack has taken a major step back, partly due to Justin Herbert’s hand injury and partly because the offense has shifted toward a run-heavy approach. Gadsden’s usage remains concerning, as he saw only a 15.4% target share and a 7.7% first-read share last week. His inconsistency and lack of scoring opportunities make him difficult to trust at this point in the season. The underlying trends point toward a player who is more volatile than his matchup might suggest.
Despite the seemingly favorable matchup numbers in recent weeks, Gadsden has not cashed in and now gets a tough matchup against the Chiefs. The Chiefs have allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points to tight ends on the season and have consistently limited explosive plays over the middle. Only three tight ends have scored double-digit points against them. While Kansas City has allowed increased production to tight ends since Week 10, the Chargers’ struggling offense makes it unlikely that Gadsden capitalizes. His recent usage dip, combined with Herbert’s limitations, creates a narrow path to fantasy relevance. He profiles best as a desperation streaming option, but in most leagues, he should remain on the bench this week.
DEF to Start
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars are in a prime streaming spot this week against a Jets offense that is once again dealing with instability at quarterback. With Justin Fields nursing a knee injury and Tyrod Taylor leaving Week 14 with a groin issue, undrafted rookie Brady Cook may be forced into another start after throwing two interceptions against Miami. New York has been one of the most sack-prone teams in football all season, taking the third-highest sack rate and allowing 47 sacks overall. Jacksonville has quietly become a strong defensive unit, generating pressure at a 38% rate since its bye while also playing excellent run defense. They’ve posted six double-digit fantasy performances and rank seventh among fantasy defenses at 7.8 points per game. Even if Cook doesn’t start, this matchup still heavily favors Jacksonville due to the Jets’ offensive struggles. With turnovers likely and sacks almost guaranteed, the Jaguars are one of the best widely available plays of Week 15.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have underwhelmed as a fantasy defense for much of the season, but they enter Week 15 with an ideal matchup against a Titans offense averaging just 15.5 points per game. San Francisco is coming off a bye, giving them extra preparation time and much-needed rest as they continue to deal with injuries across the roster. Although the Titans haven’t been the pushover they once were for fantasy defenses, they remain limited offensively and have struggled to sustain drives. The 49ers have logged three double-digit games this season, including two over their last three contests, and their athleticism still gives them a high weekly ceiling. Tennessee recently held Cleveland and Seattle to modest defensive outputs, but that doesn’t erase their season-long inconsistency. Given the Titans’ scoring issues and lack of explosive playmakers, the 49ers are a viable Week 15 streamer.
Chicago Bears
The Bears are a risky but justifiable streaming defense this week thanks to a matchup with a Browns offense that still lacks stability despite a recent surge. Cleveland is averaging just 17.2 points per game on the season and now enters Week 15 dealing with major offensive line injuries, including the loss of center Ethan Pocic and the likely absence of right guard Wyatt Teller. Shedeur Sanders has taken eight sacks in his three starts and has shown a tendency to hold the ball, which plays directly into Chicago’s hands, racking up more sacks. The Bears rank first in turnover rate and 12th in opponent scoring rate over the last two months, forming one of the most opportunistic units in football. With the Browns missing multiple linemen and facing one of the NFL’s most opportunistic units, the Bears have sneaky streaming appeal.
DEF to Sit
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams have been one of the best fantasy defenses over the last two months, but a matchup against the Lions makes them a clear sit for Week 15. Detroit has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to opposing defenses and boasts the league’s top-ranked scoring offense. Even worse for Los Angeles, this game is indoors in a stadium Jared Goff knows extremely well, which minimizes turnover opportunities and boosts Detroit’s scoring potential. The Rams rank top-12 or better across several defensive metrics recently, including EPA allowed, turnover rate, and pressure rate, but those strengths are unlikely to matter against an elite, well-protected offense. Detroit has simply been too efficient to target with opposing defenses. No matter how well the Rams have played, they should be firmly on the bench this week.
New England Patriots
The Patriots have been dependable for fantasy, but this is not the week to trust them with Josh Allen and the Bills coming to town. Buffalo is scoring nearly 30 points per game since their Week 7 bye and producing over 380 total yards per contest, creating one of the worst matchups imaginable for opposing defenses. New England’s defense has slipped since losing Milton Williams, ranking bottom three in defensive success rate and struggling heavily against the run. While the Patriots still excel in pressure rate and opponent scoring rate over the last two months, those strengths typically do not translate well against Josh Allen and the Bills. Even if the Patriots find a way to force a takeaway, the overall damage is likely to outweigh any fantasy value. This is a matchup to avoid completely with your playoff hopes on the line.
Kickers to Start
Ka’imi Fairbairn HOU
Ka’imi Fairbairn has been one of the most consistent kickers in fantasy this season and enters Week 15 with a strong matchup against a Cardinals defense that consistently allows scoring opportunities. He has scored at least eight fantasy points in eight straight games and is 29-of-32 on field goal attempts, with all three misses coming from 50+ yards. Fairbairn averages nearly three field goal attempts per game, giving him one of the most reliable workloads in the league. Arizona’s defense has surrendered nine or more points to kickers nine times this season, including five such games since Week 10. If you’ve been riding Fairbairn, you keep rolling him out with confidence.
Eddy Pineiro SF
Eddy Pineiro returns from a two-game absence and a Week 14 bye, giving him extra rest to recover from a hamstring injury just in time for an excellent matchup. Before getting hurt, Pineiro was perfect on all 22 field goal attempts, including six from 50+ yards, showing both reliability and elite leg strength. Despite missing multiple games, he still ranks as the K15 on the season thanks to strong early-season production. The Titans have been one of the more generous defenses to opposing kickers, ranking inside the top 12 in fantasy points allowed to the position. There is some risk with him coming off injury, but the matchup and talent level outweigh the concern. Pineiro carries legitimate top-10 upside this week.
Kickers to Sit
Matt Prater BUF
Matt Prater has been consistent but unspectacular recently, failing to score more than eight fantasy points in six straight games and seeing his season average dip to a modest 7.5 points per game. This week he draws the Patriots, who have allowed just five fantasy points per game to kickers, one of the lowest marks in the league. The projected high game total doesn’t help him either, as New England tends to force touchdowns rather than field goal tries. Given his recent decline in volume and a difficult defensive matchup, Prater becomes a liability in the fantasy playoffs. Managers should look for kickers with safer workloads and more favorable matchups.
Harrison Butker KC
Harrison Butker has become nearly unstartable, posting single-digit fantasy points in eight of his last nine games and managing just three points in Week 14 against Houston. Kansas City’s offense has been inconsistent all season, limiting his scoring opportunities despite strong accuracy. The Chargers present another difficult matchup, allowing fewer than seven fantasy points per game to opposing kickers since Week 7. Even though Butker scored 11 points against them in Week 1, the Chiefs’ offense has regressed and now struggles to sustain drives. With a projected total in the low 40s, this game offers little scoring upside for kickers on either side. Butker’s floor is simply too low to trust in the fantasy playoffs.
