fantasy football FAAB – Page 3

Free-agent Forecast: Week 14

The fantasy football playoffs are upon us for the vast majority of leagues, and it’s no time to give up on working the waiver wire.

Free-agent recommendations refer to 12-team league formats, unless specifically stated. FAAB $ amounts are based on a $100 budget.

Bye weeks: none

Quarterbacks

1-Week Plug & Play

Ryan Fitzpatrick, Miami Dolphins at New York Jets

Should Fitzpatrick remain on your league’s wire, he makes for a fine one-week play against this divisional foe. New York has given up more than 26 fantasy points in three of the last six games: The guys incapable of topping 20 fantasy points were Dwayne Haskins, Derek Carr, Andy Dalton … not exactly an elite crop of talent. While FitzMagic is anything but elite, he’s capable of posting studly numbers at times. The last time these two met was Week 9, and he threw for 285 yards and a trio of scores (26.6 points). WR DeVante Parker is playing like a brand-new man, and the Dolphins are making the most of a suspect cast of weapons. That said, Fitz should be treated as a quality QB2 starter or a low-tier No. 1 play.

Availability: 60%
FAAB: $2-3

Daniel Jones, New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles

The rookie has been held under 20 fantasy points in three of the last four contests but had thrown only one interception in the four games leading up a three-INT mistake fest vs. the Green Bay Packers in Week 13. It’s one of those “take the bad with the good” scenarios in fantasy … Philadelphia has granted quarterbacks multi-TD games on six occasions in 2019, including a three-score day to Ryan Fitzpatrick in Week 13. These teams haven’t met this season, and Jones is a risk-reward decision against a defensive unit that has permitted massive fantasy stats when it has been bad. Five different passers have at least 28 points vs. this group in ’19.

Availability: 52%
FAAB: $1-2

Grab & stash

Gardner Minshew, Jacksonville Jaguars

Last week, I wrote Minshew was worth a stash since Nick Foles has done nothing to instill confidence that he can be “the guy.” We saw it play out exactly as suspected in Wee 13. There is enough tape on Foles to know what he is and isn’t, so giving Minshew a chance to further prove he is the future makes the most sense. The Jaguars face one of the easiest remaining fantasy schedules with matchups vs. the Los Angeles Chargers, at Oakland and at Atlanta in the upcoming weeks. Add him for depth or as a QB2 in leagues that allow/require utilization of more than one starting passers now that head coach Doug Marrone has publicly committed to Minshew Mania.

Availability: 61%
FAAB: $0-1

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Running Backs

priority free agents

Patrick Laird, Miami Dolphins

Kalen Ballage (leg) left Week 13 action and did not return. Laird stepped up for the second time in three weeks and is a must-add in all fantasy formats, especially in PPR scoring. Ballage was nothing more than a lotto ticket each week for a TD, and Laird is more of a pass-catching extension of the hand-off. In those two contests, he has 11 total targets and 10 receptions for 94 yards. Facing Philly in Week 13, Laird ran a Ballage-like 10 times for five yards and a TD. Miami faces the New York Jets and New York Giants — both at the Meadowlands — in the next two outings, followed by a Week 16 home tilt with Cincinnati.

Availability: 84%
FAAB: $15-17

Raheem Mostert, San Francisco 49ers

Tevin Coleman took a back seat after struggling to generate much of anything, and Mostert had little trouble posting career-best numbers vs. the Baltimore Ravens. While he’s a premium add this week, Mostert isn’t necessarily a must-start until we have a clearer understanding of what to expect from Matt Breida’s ankle injury. Should Breida return, the backfield gets even more convoluted, and it’s not like the matchup is particularly friendly at New Orleans. For now, add him and wait to see what the week of practice reveals for Breida. Coleman easily could reclaim the primary workload, although the hot hand usually wins out in a multi-back situation in which the players tend to be interchangeable.

Availability: 58%
FAAB: $3-4

1-Week Plug & Play

Darwin Thompson, Kansas City Chiefs

The caveat here is two-fold: What is the diagnosis of Darrel Williams’ hamstring injury, and will the Chiefs get Damien Williams back on the field in Week 14? The point being, if either player returns, there’s no lineup-worthy value in Thompson. However, should both miss the contest, it’s pretty clear LeSean McCoy cannot do it alone. The New England Patriots host the Chiefs, and guarding checkdown passes is a major weakness for this defensive scheme.

Availability: 70%
FAAB: $4-5

Wide Receivers

priority free agents

1-Week Plug & Play

Nelson Agholor, Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants

Look, it hasn’t been pretty for Agholor in the last two-plus months. Since Week 3, he hasn’t scored a touchdown, nor has the USC product tallied more than 42 yards of offense in any of those appearances. In the past two weeks, Carson Wentz has targeted him 15 times, resulting in an unmemorable seven catches for 81 yards in total. New York is the driving force behind this recommendation, and the injury to TE Zach Ertz also is a factor. The Giants have permitted 10 touchdowns to wideouts in the last five outings, and seven receivers in that time were good for at least 80 yards, while 11 managed double-digit PPR points.

Availability: 51%
FAAB: $2-3

Marcus Johnson, Indianapolis Colts at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

This one depends mostly on the status of wide receiver T.Y. Hilton (calf) after he aggravated his injury in Week 12 and missed Week 13. The trip to Tampa brings on the best possible matchup to kick off the fantasy playoffs. The Bucs have yielded 10 scores to the position in the last five games, and four receivers have posted at least 114 yards in that time. Johnson is likely a total unknown to most fantasy gamers, but he has been more involved of late and is a worthwhile fantasy consideration for gamers in dire need of a flex. In all likelihood, he’s too unknown for most gamers to be willing to take the chance, but the matchup and his role present an opportunity. In the Colts’ last two games without Hilton, Johnson has been targeted an average of five times. He has produced at least 9.5 PPR points in each of those contests, and the Week 11 meeting with Jacksonville saw Johnson score a touchdown.

Availability: 99%
FAAB: $1-2

Demaryius Thomas, New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins

Miami has granted 10 scores to the position in the last six games, or eight in the past five. Four receivers have gone over the century mark for yardage, and seven of the wideouts landed at least five balls — the most likely way Thomas will make a dent. Miami has conceded at least 19.4 PPR points to seven receivers since Week 7. Thomas, as mentioned, is hardly a threat for a touchdown, but if he’s ever going to score one in 2019, this ought to be the week. The veteran has at least five targets in seven of his last nine appearances, and he has snagged four or more balls in five of them. The combination of matchups and utilization makes Thomas a reasonable waiver add for a Week 14 PPR flex.

Availability: 63%
FAAB: $1-2

Grab & stash

John Ross, Cincinnati Bengals

Two weeks ago, he resumed practicing and enters the final week before the Bengals have to either activate or keep him on IR. It wouldn’t hurt to stash him away ahead of the decision, especially with Andy Dalton back under center. The previous move to QB Ryan Finley was the driving force behind not including Ross in this space.

Availability: 78%
FAAB: $1-2

Tight Ends

priority free agents

1-Week Plug & Play

Vance McDonald, Pittsburgh Steelers at Arizona Cardinals

In Week 13, with Devlin Hodges starting at quarterback, McDonald landed all three of his targets for a paltry 21 yards. He has caught no more than three passes in any game since Week 9. Exciting stuff, huh? This one is all about the matchup, and, oh boy, is it ever an exploitable matchup! The Cardinals are on a historically bad pace for giving up fantasy points to the position, and we’ve seen an average of a score per game come against Arizona in the hands of tight ends in the last five battles. The season-long outlook is so much brighter: Thirteen of 79 catches by the position found paydirt, coming at a rate of once every six snags. McDonald is a hopeful play for a score from a volatile position.

Availability: 50%
FAAB: $2-3

Jonnu Smith, Tennessee Titans at Oakland Raiders

Smith hasn’t much competition for touches at his position, yet he can’t seem to get the job done. The Titans have looked his way 13 times in the last four games, including a no-involvement Week 12. Smith should get back on track in Week 14 with such a good matchup for scoring. The Raiders have permitted only two scores to TEs in the last five games, but extending the view just two games adds three more trips to the end zone. The season-long peek reveals eight touchdowns against Oakland by tight ends. Smith caught nine of 10 looks for 142 yards and a score from Weeks 7-8, so it’s not like he has been a total scrub without Delanie Walker.

Availability: 61%
FAAB: $1-2

Kaden Smith, New York Giants

This one is solely predicated on the Giants being without TE Evan Engram (foot) and TE Rhett Ellison (concussion) in Week 14. Smith scored in their absence in Week 12 and managed a line of 6-70-0 on eight looks in Week 13. The rookie is an athletic 6-foot-5, 255 pounds, and he would benefit even more if wideout Golden Tate (concussion) also misses the upcoming week. Don’t invest FAAB yet, but Smith is worth a late-week add if the injury report favors another game of starter’s involvement for him.

Availability: 98%
FAAB: $0

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Kickers

1-Week Plug & Play

Matt Prater, Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings

Entering Week 13, Minnesota had given up 13 field goal attempts in the prior four outings. That’s the third-highest figure in the league and most among teams with only four games played. The veteran kicker as at least six fantasy points (non-distance scoring) in three of the last five weeks, and Prater has six three-point attempts in the past two games. The overall offensive efficacy issues makes Prater a viable PK1 without Matthew Stafford (back) on the field, presuming he indeed is out again.

Availability: 44%
FAAB: $0-1

Matt Gay, Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Indianapolis Colts

The rookie has averaged a pair of field goal tries a game in the last five contests, and he has nailed all but one. The total number of extra points attempted sits at 16 in that window, and each one of those tries went through the pipes. Indianapolis has granted kickers at least seven fantasy points in four of the past five matchups, and 10 of the 11 three-point attempts in that time have connected. The Colts could slow Tampa’s offense just enough to stall out a few drives, and this defense isn’t quite known for its penchant to create turnovers.

Availability: 56%
FAAB: $0-1

Defense/Specials Teams

1-Week Plug & Play

Tennessee Titans at Oakland Raiders

Tennessee has at least three sacks in four of the last five weeks, and the one week with only two sacks resulted in a defensive touchdown. Mike Vrabel’s bunch has generated two takeaways, on average, in that time frame. The Raiders has been one of the worst matchups most of the year for defenses, but protecting the ball hasn’t been a high priority in recent weeks. In the last three games, Oakland has lost three fumbles, thrown four interceptions (after just one in the previous six outings), and permitted a pair of defensive touchdowns. Quarterback Derek Carr has been sacked nine times in the last month.

Availability: 62%
FAAB: $1-2

Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers

With zero sacks in the last two games, and no fumble recoveries since Week 5, Atlanta is a tough sell in any fantasy format. The defense has just eight interceptions on the year, although three-quarters of them have come in the past month. Carolina provided Atlanta its best fantasy day of 2019 in Week 11, giving up five sacks and throwing four picks. In addition, the Falcons managed a special teams return score in that contest. The Panthers have yielded 16 sacks in the past three games alone, committing seven turnovers in that window. The recommendation to play Atlanta is purely a bid to take advantage of the upside of the matchup.

Availability: 81%
FAAB: $0-1

Free-agent Forecast: Week 13

Even though bye weeks are behind us with one game left before most fantasy football playoffs begin, don’t give up on the waiver wire.

Free-agent recommendations refer to 12-team league formats, unless specifically stated. FAAB $ amounts are based on a $100 budget.

Bye weeks: none

Quarterbacks

1-Week Plug & Play

Mitchell Trubisky, Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions

The annual Turkey Day battle in Motown brings Trubisky for Round 2 in the last four weeks. He tossed a trio of touchdowns in that contest but managed only 173 yards. Considering his weaponry is the healthiest it has been in some time, and Trubisky looked unfazed by the hip pointer, he is a low-end starter for teams in desperation mode. Without byes, he’s more likely to be an option in two-QB leagues.

Availability: 52%
FAAB: $2-3

Grab & stash

Gardner Minshew, Jacksonville Jaguars

Two full games into the Nick Foles tenure has resulted in a pair of noncompetitive losses and will likely have a desperate coaching staff looking hard at whether benching Minshew was indeed the right call. Purely speculative, but it’s difficult to see the Jaguars sticking with Foles — an ideal backup to a young passer. The Jaguars face one of the easiest remaining fantasy schedules with matchups vs. Tampa, the Los Angeles Chargers, at Oakland and at Atlanta in the remaining fantasy weeks.

Availability: 57%
FAAB: $1-2

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Running Backs

priority free agents

Bo Scarbrough, Detroit Lions

Simply a repeat of last week but with the caveat that he went from being a one-week play to a must-own option in all conventional formats. His availability is between 43 percent in the most casual of leagues polled and 51 percent in 12-team competitive setups. It’s worth checking just the wire for your league, regardless of its level of play.

Availability: 47% aggregate
FAAB: $18-20

Benny Snell Jr., Pittsburgh Steelers

James Conner (shoulder) is back on the shelf, and Snell returned from a minor knee surgery to rush for 98 yards on 21 carries in Week 12. Jaylen Samuels carried it only twice and snagged a trio of passes — his mostly role. It’s unclear when Conner will return, and Snell belongs on rosters if for nothing but depth as we are on the cusp of the fantasy playoffs in most leagues.

Availability: 77%
FAAB: $12-14

1-Week Plug & Play

Qadree Ollison, Atlanta Falcons

I’ve resisted adding him because of Ollison having such a limited role, Brian Hill’s presence, and the likelihood of the injured Devonta Freeman reclaiming his normal role upon returning. After scores in consecutive weeks, the rookie is a worthy add in deeper setups and should be considered a fringe flex if Freeman sits again. Ollison is merely a flier for a TD vs. the Saints, which requires situational football to be on his side. Tread with optimistic caution.

Availability: 88%
FAAB: $1-2

Wide Receivers

priority free agents

Jakobi Meyers, New England Patriots

Injuries galore thrust the talented rookie into the spotlight. He has looked every bit the part of an NFL-capable wideout from the onset of his professional career. Meyers will continue to play a large role in the offense as long as Mohamed Sanu (ankle) is out of commission — luckily they’re similar weapons. Wideout Phillip Dorsett (concussion) may return in Week 13, or at least is closer than Sanu. The issue with the Patriots is we’re never really know until we know when it comes to injuries. Meyers snagged only four of his nine targets in Week 12 but managed a respectable 74 yards. The Patriots head to Houston this week before hosting KC in Week 14. The fantasy season closes with a visit to Cincy and home game vs. the Buffalo Bills.

Availability: 79%
FAAB: $5-7

Allen Hurns, Miami Dolphins

While he isn’t necessarily a priority, gamers can roster Hurns for the remaining run. He faces Philly, at the New York Jets, at the New York Giants, and vs. Cincinnati to close out 2019’s fantasy schedule. Hurns has emerged as a reliable No. 2 target for Ryan Fitzpatrick behind DeVante Parker. The well-traveled Hurns has at least four targets in three straight games, producing four receptions in each of the last two. The six-year vet found the end zone in Week 12 for the second time in the last five games and could be in the argument for a flex every weekend the rest of the way.

Availability: 90%
FAAB: $2-3

1-Week Plug & Play

Chris Conley, Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Regardless of what happens under center, Conley has the best matchup available and is a quality place to turn for a flex option. He has a higher probability than usual for a touchdown against a defense that has gifted them like Santa dishes out Christmas presents. Conley has seen 17 targets from Nick Foles in the last two games, snaring 10 for 107. Should Gardner Minshew take over, the former Chiefs receiver garnered seven looks in three consecutive games prior to Foles taking over.

Availability: 49%
FAAB: $2-3

1-Week Plug & Play/Grab & stash

Anthony Miller, Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions

The second-year receiver finally is showing signs of being healthy and living up to his potential. He has yet to find the end zone in 2019 after scoring seven times as a rook, but 20 targets in the last two games — resulting in a pair of six-catch games — makes him a quality fantasy option on the wire this week. Chicago travels to Detroit in Week 13, which makes Miller almost an automatic play in any PPR format. The Lions entered Week 12 as the sixth-weakest defense of the position since Week 6. The schedule gets much tougher afterward (DAL, @GB, KC), so consider stashing him for depth.

Availability: 60%
FAAB: $2-4

Tight Ends

priority free agents

Ryan Griffin, New York Jets

Replay of last week’s inclusion: Griffin is a must-own in all formats right now. The Jets are hitting their stride on offense, and the former Houston Texan is a large reason why the passing game has stepped up. He served up two total duds in the last seven weeks but cobbled together five efforts with at least 11 PPR points in that time. Cincinnati is the Week 13 opponent, and entering Week 12, this was the sixth-easiest matchup to exploit over the prior five weekends of play.

Availability: 49%
FAAB: $8-10

Jack Doyle, Indianapolis Colts

Eric Ebron is heading to IR and will miss the remainder of the season. The position offers low-end TE1 viability with the right matchups, in part because Doyle displayed tremendous chemistry working with quarterback Jacoby Brissett in 2017. Tight ends have been a viable bunch in 2019, and if nothing else, the veteran is worthy of depth as we march into the fantasy postseason. Tennessee, at Tampa Bay, at New Orleans and Carolina are ahead: All but the last offer a lineup-worthy fantasy matchup, and even the Panthers had given up a strong game in Week 12 to Saints TE Jared Cook.

Availability: 41%
FAAB: $5-7

Mike Gesicki, Miami Dolphins

He was included a few weeks back as a watch list guy, but after seeing six or more targets in four straight contests, the Penn State product belongs in the weekly conversation for PPR gamers. He finally found the end zone in Week 13, and while only two of those games resulted in more than six PPR points, we’re starting to see consistent involvement and some sense of reciprocation from the second-year pro. Miami needs all the help it can get from the skill guys, and the defense forces the offensive side to sling it around the playground most every week. It won’t always be pretty, but the point here is finding a serviceable option. Ahead: CIN, at NYJ, at NYG, CIN.

Availability: 57%
FAAB: $2-3

1-Week Plug & Play

Rhett Ellison, New York Giants vs. Green Bay Packers

Major caveat: If Evan Engram (foot) doesn’t return and Ellison (concussion) does, get him into a lineup. The Packers are among the weakest teams vs. tight ends, ranking worst in yardage and catches allowed per game in the five weeks leading up to George Kittle smacking them down in Week 12. The upside here is gamers have to invest nothing but a roster spot in Ellison, which also means you can wait until late in the week to find out what’s up with he and Engram … low risk, high reward, but utilizing him is probably better served for DFS action.

Availability: 99%
FAAB: $0

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Kickers

1-Week Plug & Play

Josh Lambo, Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Lambo has been awfully quiet in recent weeks, and it has directly coincided with the struggles of this offense in the last three games. We saw a little more life from the offense in Week 12, although the kicking game essentially gets abandoned when your defense creates such a deficit on the scoreboard. No team provides a better opportunity for fantasy kickers than the Bucs.

Availability: 48%
FAAB: $0-1

Jake Elliott, Philadelphia Eagles at Miami Dolphins

The Philly offense has crash landed, and it has been no different for Elliott. He has just one game with more than two field goal attempts an only two others with more than one. Elliott has generated at least eight fantasy points only once this year. Injuries to the backfield, receiving corps and offensive line should help even the playing field for these rosters, making the No. 2 matchup for fantasy kickers even more appealing than usual.

Availability: 76%
FAAB: $0-1

Defense/Specials Teams

1-Week Plug & Play/Grab & stash

New York Jets at Cincinnati Bengals

New York has two defensive scores in the past three weeks and have allowed only 20 offensive points in the last two outings. With 17 sacks to their credit in the past four appearances, the Jets have generated five takeaways and take on a rookie quarterback who has five turnovers and been sacked 11 times over the last three starts. New York has some staying power with a Week 14 meeting against Miami.

Availability: 57%
FAAB: $1-2

1-Week Plug & Play

Philadelphia Eagles at Miami Dolphins

The Philly defense has posted exactly two games in 2019 with more than seven fantasy points, and one of them was in Week 12 vs. the Seahawks. Six sacks and a pair of takeaway later, it couldn’t have come at a better time to give gamers some sense of hope that this defense can exploit a Miami offense that has turned it over 11 times and yielded 23 sacks in the last six games.

Availability: 61%
FAAB: $1-2

Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos

Even though LA hasn’t posted squat for fantasy points in 2019, with just two contests in double figures, the matchup is too tempting, especially with the Chargers returning from a bye week. Denver gave up 17 points to Buffalo in conventional fantasy scoring in Week 12, mostly fueled by allowing four sacks and a turnover. Should your league reward for limiting offensive points, Denver has scored just 26 offensive points in the last two games combined.

Availability: 65%
FAAB: $0-1

Free-agent Forecast: Week 12

The last round of bye weeks will have fantasy footballers starting unsavory options while just hoping to get a W.

Free-agent recommendations refer to 12-team league formats, unless specifically stated. FAAB $ amounts are based on a $100 budget.

Bye weeks: Cardinals, Chiefs, Chargers, Vikings

Quarterbacks

1-Week Plug & Play

Jeff Driskel, Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins

This one really could go either way, but there’s something scrappy about Driskel that warrants attention. He has starting experience after five nods in 2018 with the Cincinnati Bengals, and was plenty competent this past weekend vs. a tough Dallas secondary. Washington had given up almost nothing to QBs since Week 5 before Sam Darnold went for 293-4-1 in Week 11. Some of the success was due to the matchups. Driskel has the talent to further capitalize on his promising start for the Matthew Stafford-less Lions. Since four normal fantasy starters are on bye this week, don’t be afraid of No. 9’s replacement.

Availability: 87%
FAAB: $2-3

Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders at New York Jets

After rookie QB Dwayne Haskins began his Washington Redskins career with zero touchdowns against four interceptions in three appearances, the Jets decided to make him look decent for a change. He finished with a pair of TD passes and only one turnover. The prior three opponents (Gardner Minshew, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Daniel Jones) all went for at least 279 yards and three TDs. The Jets are quality vs. the run, and Oakland could be forced to the air more than usual. Carr belongs atop your short list of Week 12 fill-in options with a quartet of starting fantasy passers on vacation. There’s a chance he still is available in more casual setups.

Availability: 31%
FAAB: $4-5

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Running Backs

1-week plug & play

Bo Scarbrough, Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins

The 2018 seventh-rounder by Dallas made his Detroit as well as NFL debut and was the most prolific rusher they’ve seen since Barry Sanders … okay, not quite, but it sure feels that way. The powerful Alabama product rushed 14 times for 55 yards and found paydirt. He’s not a threat to touch the ball in the passing game, but Detroit’s dire need of some semblance of a rushing attack makes him a likely candidate for more work. Entering Week 11, Washington vs. the position ranked 28.4 percent weaker than the league average in fantasy points yielded, and Le’Veon Bell rushed for 59 yards plus a score in Sunday’s meeting. Looking ahead for Detroit, it’s all downhill from there in the scheduling (CHI, @MIN, TB, @DEN).

Availability: 99%
FAAB: $7-9

Jonathan Williams/Nyheim Hines, Indianapolis Colts

The Colts head to Houston on a short week, playing Thursday night, and Marlon Mack will not go after suffering a hand fracture vs. the Jaguars. Gamers have an opportunity for a cheap lineup play of Williams and/or Hines. The Texans gave up no rushing TDs in the prior five weeks to the 41-7 drubbing at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens. Mark Ingram landed a pair of touchdown grabs, and his backup, Gus Edwards, went for 112 yards and a score on just eight carries. Be more optimistic with Hines, because this defense had surrendered four aerial TDs vs. three ground scores to RBs entering Week 11, and Indy needs all the help it can get in the passing game right now. Furthermore, Jordan Wilkins (ankle) is on track to return and would impact the role of Williams the most. Mack could miss several games after undergoing surgery, so there may be some staying power, but the matchups are unkind.

Availability: 98% (Williams); 54% (Hines)
FAAB: $4-6 for either

Patrick Laird, Miami Dolphins at Cleveland Browns

The Dolphins turned to the rookie in Week 11 as a pass-catching back while Mark Walton continues to serve a suspension. The Cleveland defense has been mostly neutral vs. PPR backs this year, giving up 53 catches (14th) and three touchdowns through the air. While a TD would be a nice bonus of sorts for Laird, if he lands something similar to another line of 6-51-0, consider it a win as a flex play. Even if he has a strong game, there isn’t much staying power with Walton on the verge of returning. (Update: Walton was released after another alleged legal incident, and Laird has more fantasy appeal heading into the fake postseason.)

Availability: 99%
FAAB: $4-5

Wide Receivers

priority free agents

Darius Slayton, New York Giants

Replaying this one from last week as he returns from a bye: There’s a lot of all or nothing going on here, and the rookie is still learning the ropes as he goes. The good is when Slayton has been on, look out! The New York Jets and Detroit Lions each gave up two TDs to him in his past three contests, enveloping a four-target, one-catch game vs. Dallas. Slayton has at least 11.2 PPR points in 50 percent of his games. WR Sterling Shepard (concussion) is supposed to return to practice this week, but he has done this once already and his symptoms returned. The remaining schedule is hit or miss: at Chicago (27th), vs. Green Bay (24th), at Philadelphia (8th), vs. Miami (18th), at Washington (16th). Slayton is explosive enough to warrant a roster spot in all traditional fantasy formats, even if Shepard indeed plays.

Availability: 44%
FAAB: $9-10

1-Week Plug & Play

Randall Cobb, Dallas Cowboys at New England Patriots

Cobb has seven or more targets in three straight games following the bye week and 21-plus fantasy points in consecutive games in PPR. The Cowboys have a tough matchup ahead with New England, but underneath receivers tend to do well for several reasons. First of all, the Patriots focus on eliminating the best weapon of the opponent. That’s Zeke Elliot, and Amari Cooper will see Stephon Gilmore, effectively canceling out the star WRq. Michael Gallup probably gets doubled aplenty in this one, and that leaves checkdown work to Cobb and tight end Jason Witten. Since Cobb is on a mini heater, expectations may be higher than usual, but he has at least 8 PPR points in every game this year with five or more targets. The Cowboys have enough ways to attack that New England could struggle in this one to always deploy coverage in the right areas — much like how Baltimore overwhelmed them in Week 9. The remaining schedule is unkind (BUF, @CHI, LAR, @PHI).

Availability: 49%
FAAB: $2-3

Taylor Gabriel, Chicago Bears vs. New York Giants

In the three games prior to their Week 11 bye, the Giants gave up seven individual efforts worth double figures in PPR. The matchup was more than 36 percent better than the league average in that window as five different receivers scored a touchdown (six total TDs). The Bears are mostly a dumpster fire in the passing game, but Gabriel is capable of doing more with lower volume than when those double-digit target days aren’t happening. There is plenty of risk involved here, and the QB situation needs clarity, but in the last week of byes, gamers are forced to take chances on upside rather than production sometimes.

Availability: 49%
FAAB: $2-3

Rashard Higgins, Cleveland Browns vs. Miami Dolphins

With Antonio Callaway’s tenure in Cleveland over, Higgins is an incredibly risky but sneaky play. He and Baker Mayfield have displayed considerable chemistry through their short time together, and when a fantasy owner is desperate enough to take a gamble on someone like Higgins — a third receiver in an underperforming offense — it better be with a higher probability of said player scoring a touchdown. The Dolphins allowed 14 touchdowns on 92 receptions by WRs entering Week 11. For comparison, the winless Cincinnati Bengals yielded one fewer catch and only eight TDs in that window.

Availability: 80%
FAAB: $0-1

Grab & stash

Jakeem Grant, Miami Dolphins

While Grant could be a worthy flier in Week 12 vs. the Cleveland Browns, this defense has been relatively capable at limiting the position in 2019. The schedule ahead is more favorable for rolling the dice: Philly, at Jets, at Giants, vs. Cincy. The elusive wideout is coming off of two offensive touchdowns against the Bills, and he scored a pair of TDs when including a kickoff return (typically not counted in fantasy). Gamers were advised to watch how this situation plays out a few weeks back when Preston Williams (knee) was lost for the year. Now we know!

Availability: 89%
FAAB: $4-5

Tight Ends

priority free agents

Cameron Brate, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The veteran has a rapport with his quarterback and Brate’s positional mate, O.J. Howard, is firmly lodged in Bruce Arians’ doghouse. Howard had his best game of the year in Week 10 and followed it up with a bobbled pass that was picked off and no receptions. Meanwhile, Jameis Winston went to Brate a whopping 14 times, resulting in 10 grabs for 73 yards. Look for Brate to continue being the primary target at the position. Ahead on the schedule includes trips to Atlanta and Jacksonville before returning home for Indianapolis. The Bucs close out the fantasy season with a visit Detroit and a home battle with Houston. All but Indy offers a positive matchup when factoring data since Week 5.

Availability: 67%
FAAB: $2-3

Ryan Griffin, New York Jets

Inconsistency has been a major issue for Griffin, and Chris Herndon was looming before his season came to an end before it ever really began. Griffin is free to roam the middle without the second-year tight end waiting for his turn. The former Houston Texan has at least 11 PPR points in four of his last six games. The two without: a total of 1.9 points. Yeesh. Nonetheless, with a volatile position and erratic utilization of the receiving corps in New York, Griffin’s role should remain mostly stable. The Jets face Oakland, at Cincinnati, vs. Miami, at Baltimore and vs. Pittsburgh ahead.

Availability: 74%
FAAB: $2-3

1-Week Plug & Play

Jaeden Graham, Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

A quality game vs. the Buccaneers — a doormat for fantasy tight ends this year — could lead to Graham seeing more work while TE Austin Hooper (knee) continues to recover for a few more weeks. The Yale product stands 6-foot-4, 250 pounds, but his NFL track record is virtually zilch. He caught two passes for 23 yards in Week 11 and one the prior outing. Brave gamers who are looking to play the matchups can stream him, but Graham is about as risky as they come. Don’t invest more than a roster spot.

Availability: 99%
FAAB: $0

Kickers

1-Week Plug & Play

Younghoe Koo, Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Any kicker with 25 fantasy points in a two-week span is worthy of picking up, and it never hurts when the matchup ahead is vs. one of the most favorable opponents. The Bucs have yielded the most fantasy points to the position entering Week 11, and enemy boots have attempted 13 three-pointers in the last four games alone vs. Tampa. The former Chargers kicker has nailed six of his seven tries with the Falcons and could have some staying power with another strong effort.

Availability: 95%
FAAB: $0-1

Austin Seibert, Cleveland Browns vs. Miami Dolphins

Seibert missed his first field goal attempts of the year last Thursday, which could give gamers pause. He should shake it off. The Dolphins, meanwhile, have allowed kickers to attempt at least two field goals in every game since Week 1. In Week 11, Steven Hauschka came through on his one-week play recommendation against this defense, and we’re going to the well once again. Miami’s defense vs. Cleveland’s offense profiles as a nearly perfect script for a field-goal frenzy by the rookie.

Availability: 85%
FAAB: $0-1

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Defense/Specials Teams

1-Week Plug & Play

Oakland Raiders at New York Jets

Oakland has logged 10 sacks in the last two games alone after totaling just 13 in all of 2018. In those two contests, the Raiders recorded four interceptions a fumble recovery and a defensive touchdown on a Pick 6. Washington managed two sacks and two takeaways vs. New York in Week 11, but in the prior five weeks, the Jets turned it over 11 times and gave up a shade under three sacks a contest. Oakland’s defense is playing as well as any unit right now in fantasy and deserves some respect.

Availability: 76%
FAAB: $1-2

Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Last week, I dismissed the Falcons as having an outlier performance vs. the Saints, and it was a mistake to downplay the impact of the coaching staff shakeup. Dan Quinn basically fired himself as defensive coordinator and turned over the control to a tandem of assistants in Raheem Morris and Jeff Ulbrich. Guess what? It was a move that just might save Quinn’s job. After harassing Drew Brees all day in Week 10 and annihilating the Panthers in Week 11, the Falcons draw the turnover machine that is Jameis Winston. Enjoy!

Availability: 92%
FAAB: $1-2

Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins

The Jets recorded six sacks and an interception of rookie Dwayne Haskins in Week 11. The Lions have struggled to get to the quarterback in 2019, but this could be the right recipe for a spot start in fantasy. Washington has given up 14 sacks in the last three games alone and 17 in the past four. Detroit had only one sack of Dak Prescott in Week 11, which was to be expected, but this defense racked up five the prior week in Chicago. Pressure tends to lead to mistakes, even more so vs. inexperienced quarterbacks like Haskins.

Availability: 81%
FAAB: $0-1

Free-agent Forecast: Week 11

Another tough round of byes could put fantasy footballers in a bind for Week 11.

Free-agent recommendations refer to 12-team league formats, unless specifically stated. FAAB $ amounts are based on a $100 budget.

Bye weeks: Packers, Giants, Seahawks, Titans

Quarterbacks

1-Week Plug & Play

Kyle Allen, Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons

This one could go either way, mainly because of the shakeup within the coaching ranks of the Falcons on defense. Allen went for 307 yards, one TD and a pick against the Green Bay Packers in a game that was anything but conducive for passing the ball. Atlanta held Drew Brees in check with a strong pass rush that seemingly came from nowhere. Eight of Atlanta’s 13 sacks on the year have come in the last two games (6 in Week 10). The Panthers given up 13 sacks in the last three contests. Provided Carolina can keep Allen upright, the Falcons have given up at least 21 fantasy points in six games this year. Even with Russell Wilson not throwing much in Week 8 and Brees’ stinker in Week 10, this matchup is 46.7 percent better than average using data from the last five weeks. Allen is a worthwhile gamble and better suited for leagues that utilize multiple starters at quarterback.

Availability: 67%
FAAB: $2-3

Grab & stash

Nick Foles, Jacksonville Jaguars

Update from last week: Following the bye week, Foles returns to the starting lineup. Jacksonville comes back to face Indianapolis on the road and then Tennessee, also on the road. In Weeks 13-16: TB, LAC, at OAK and at ATL. Add him for depth and keep an eye on how he handles two divisional foes before trusting with a brilliant closing schedule. In all likelihood, he’s a QB2 in leagues that allow or require starting more than one signal caller. It’s tough to envision a gamer getting into the postseason without a better option than Foles, but some gamers are adept at playing the matchups — and he sure has them in his favor down the stretch.

Availability: 64%
FAAB: $0-1

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Running Backs

priority free agent

Brian Hill, Atlanta Falcons

Keep close tabs on Devonta Freeman after the veteran left with a foot injury in Week 10. (Update: Freeman’s injury will cost him approximately two games, per reports.) Hill was the next man up, logging 71 total yards and a receiving touchdown on 21 touches vs. a stingy New Orleans defense. It wasn’t exactly efficient, but as we so often remind readers of The Huddle, opportunity matters more with running backs than any position. RB Ito Smith (concussion) was placed on the Reserve/Injured list, and Hill has just Qadree Ollison to worry about for losing touches from the backfield, should Freeman miss action. The rookie was inactive eight straight games to open 2019 and didn’t touch the rock in Week 10. The offensive line is in shambles, but as we’ve seen most of the year, Atlanta is intent on involving its backs in the passing game as an extension of the running game.

Availability: 10%
FAAB: $11-12

1-week plug & play

Jalen Richard, Oakland Raiders vs. Cincinnati Bengals

Despite not carrying the ball more than twice in any of the last five games as Josh Jacobs thrives, Richard has carved out a niche role as a pass-catching option. He has eight targets in the last two games, landing seven for 99 yards in total. The Bengals are the driving force for this recommendation. This is the second-best matchup in PPR scoring, and much of it is due to having given up 44 receptions for 435 yards and a three TDs in nine games. The matchup of late has improved on paper, but mainly because of the opponents. With four quality running games on vacation, Richard makes for a reasonable risk-reward decision as a weak RB2 or a flex in PPR.

Availability: 69%
FAAB: $1-2

Wide Receivers

priority free agents

Darius Slayton, New York Giants

There’s a lot of all or nothing going on here, and the rookie is still learning the ropes as he goes. The good is when Slayton has been on, look out! The New York Jets and Detroit Lions each gave up two TDs to him in the past three weeks, enveloping a four-target, one-catch game vs. Dallas. Slayton has at least 11.2 PPR points in 50 percent of his games, and reports suggest WR Sterling Shepard (concussion) could miss the rest of the year. The Giants are on vacation this week, but he needs to be acquired and stored in reserve. The remaining schedule is hit or miss, however: at Chicago (27th), vs. Green Bay (24th), at Philadelphia (8th), vs. Miami (18th), at Washington (16th).

Availability: 61%
FAAB: $9-10

Hunter Renfrow, Oakland Raiders

The rookie has 16 targets in his last three games, scoring twice and posting at least 8.2 PPR points in each game. Defenses have focused on limiting tight end Darren Waller in that time, and it has forced QB Derek Carr to look Renfrow’s way more often. Furthermore, being a rookie, the speed of the game is slowing for him, and he is looking more comfortable on the field. The Raiders face Cincinnati, at the New York Jets, at Kansas City, vs. Tennessee, vs. Jacksonville, and at the Los Angeles Chargers to close out the fantasy season. All of those matchups are either statistically favorable or should force Oakland to pass more than usual.

Availability: 60%
FAAB: $2-3

1-Week Plug & Play

Ted Ginn Jr., New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Ginn’s role remains scant, but he has at least three targets in three-quarters of his games since Week 5. That game’s meeting vs. the Bucs resulted in a touchdown on his two catches, and he scored vs. Tampa in 2018’s lone battle. The Buccaneers have to pay extra close attention to Michael Thomas and Alvin Kamara, freeing Ginn to see isolated coverage. The Tampa defense has given up the most fantasy points per game to WRs in 2019, and six touchdowns against in the last three outings helps make this matchup 48.6 percent easier than average for fantasy exploitation.

Availability: 53%
FAAB: $1-2

1-Week Plug & Play/grab & stash

James Washington, Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns

Seven receivers have posted at least 11 PPR points vs. the Browns in the past four games, and five total touchdowns have been scored in that window. The matchup is not ideal for volume, which isn’t really Washington’s game anyway. He and QB Mason Rudolph have displayed some chemistry in the past two games, connecting on 10 of 11 targets for 159 yards and a score. Fantasy gamers could do much worse than taking a flier on the second-year wideout.

Availability: 57%
FAAB: $1-2

Grab & stash

Andy Isabella, Arizona Cardinals

Two weeks ago, the rookie landed a lone target for 88 yards and a score, displaying his elite speed in the process. In this space, I suggested Isabella could be given more chances in the coming weeks to see what he is capable of doing with extra work. Last weekend, the Cardinals threw to him three times that resulted in 78 yards, averaging a wealthy 26 yards per grab. He has double-digit points in PPR in consecutive games and could emerge as the Cardinals a few matchups that could work in his favor down the stretch. This week, at San Francisco, is not one of them, but the Los Angeles Rams in Week 12, followed by meetings with Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Seattle all are within reason for their various struggles vs. the long ball.

Availability: 75%
FAAB: $0-1

Tight Ends

priority free agents

O.J. Howard, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Savvy owners were ahead of the curve and snagged him late last week after he was cleared and inserted the third-year Howard into the lineup vs. Arizona’s woeful defense of tight ends. Had you missed out on the news or simply didn’t need him — because it’s not like Howard had done much before he missed consecutive games — then it’s worth checking the wire. He’s likely on a roster in more competitive or deeper leagues. Polling industry leagues, he’s available in about 30 percent of them. Looking at casual setups, Howard’s ownership rate is roughly 40 percent. Howard faces the Saints for a second time in Week 11, and it’s not an ideal matchup (only 1 TD allowed to TEs this year); he was held to one catch in the first meeting. Afterward: at Atlanta, at Jacksonville, and vs. the Colts — all bona fide “start ’em” matchups for tight ends.

Availability: ~45% aggregate
FAAB: $6-7

Kyle Rudolph, Minnesota Vikings

With four TDs in his last four games, including two vs. the Dallas Cowboys in Week 10, the veteran tight end has shaken off a tortoise-like start to the season. The hamstring injury keeping Adam Thielen out of the lineup has helped free up some looks, and the offense has shifted into a heavy play-action approach in recent weeks. Rudolph faces Denver (21st) in Week 11 before the bye, and he returns with matchups at Seattle (8th), vs. Detroit (11th), at the LA Chargers (27th), and vs. Green Bay (6th) to close out 2019. Three of the five matchups are well within the range of making him a quality fantasy play.

Availability: 41%
FAAB: $5-7

1-Week Plug & Play/grab & stash

Jack Doyle, Indianapolis Colts vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Regardless of the quarterback, Doyle has seen at least four targets in each of his past four games. The veteran is finally healthy, and it’s showing with three performances of 10-plus PPR points in a row. Matchups ahead vs. Jacksonville, at Houston, vs. Tennessee, and at Tampa Bay in the next month should allow Doyle to keep up the strong fantasy play. The Jaguars gave up four TDs over the last 15 catches by the position (highest frequency), and Tampa Bay ranked as the easiest matchup to exploit in the past five weeks entering Week 10 (2nd in 2019). The Texans and Titans rank in the middle of the pack vs. tight ends. No T.Y. Hilton (calf) for a few more games should continue to assist in Doyle’s relevance.

Availability: 44%
FAAB: $1-2

Tyler Eifert, Cincinnati Bengals at Oakland Raiders

Eifert has shown a little bit of his former prowess in the past two games. The Bengals made the change to rookie QB Ryan Finley in Week 10, and he wasn’t entirely awful. There were moments of competence, and the veteran tight end was looked to only four times, landing a line of 2-20-1, marking his first score since Week 2. The target count over that two-game uptick stands at 13. Eifert’s previous best over a two-week window was 11 way back in the opening two games of 2019. The Raiders have yielded seven TDs to the position in nine games, allowing the fourth-most PPR points. Four of the seven scores have come in the last three games, and this matchup goes from being 32.2 percent better than average over the course of 2019 to 53.6 percent above the league’s average in those three outings.

Availability: 54%
FAAB: $1-2

Watch list

Atlanta Falcons

Austin Hooper (knee) is expected to miss a few games, and an MRI will determine the extent of his absence. (Update: Sprained MCL, week-to-week.) The backup is veteran Luke Stocker, known more for his blocking skills than his ability to catch the ball, but he has sneaky skills. Atlanta faces Carolina in Week 11, which isn’t a worthwhile matchup to deploy Stocker. Should Hooper miss several games, the schedule turns to Tampa Bay in Week 12, and even Stocker can be a worthy fantasy play.

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Kickers

1-Week Plug & Play

Dan Bailey, Minnesota Vikings vs. Denver Broncos

No team has permitted more field goal attempts than the Broncos in 2019. Twenty-two of the 25 kicks have connected, and 14 of the 15 PATs have been true. The average of 9.4 points against ranks as the most in fantasy, and Minnesota’s offense could struggle to exploit Denver to its full capability in the passing game. Bailey has two games with at least four field goal attempts in the past six games, and he has made seven straight (15-for-17 in 2019).

Availability: 53%
FAAB: $0-1

Steven Hauschka, Buffalo Bills at Miami Dolphins

Miami is on a heater and could keep Buffalo’s erratic offense in check. The Dolphins ceded 31 points to the Bills in Week 7, and Hauschka was responsible for three field goals and a pair of extra points. The season-long stats against Miami are highlighted by the third-most field goals against (22), the matchup rating is 39.6 percent better than average since Week 6.

Availability: 83%
FAAB: $0-1

Defense/Specials Teams

1-Week Plug & Play

Dallas Cowboys at Detroit Lions

Detroit has provided at least two sacks in each game since Week 3, and the Lions have turned it over in four straight contests at a rate of 1.5 per game. Injured QB Matthew Stafford could be back this week, although nothing is certain. The Lions would trot out Jeff Driskel once again. While he wasn’t terrible vs. the Bears, it’s likely this matchup will result in a low-scoring output by Detroit without Stafford. The Cowboys have averaged three sacks and 2.33 takeaways a game in the last three appearances, generating at least 11 points in two of those three games.

Availability: 58%
FAAB: $1-2

Jacksonville Jaguars at Indianapolis Colts

While the matchup is only average based on season-long data, the Colts may be without Jacoby Brissett once again. Should he return from a knee sprain, his mobility could be compromised vs. the Jaguars’ pass rush. Quarterback Brian Hoyer would start again if Brissett is still on the mend, and he’s coming off of a three-interception game. Indy has given up 10 sacks in the last three weeks. Jacksonville returns from its bye week as the No. 4 sack leader in football, even if inconsistent.

Availability: 52%
FAAB: $1-2

New York Jets at Washington Redskins

Washington has yielded 26 sacks in nine games this year, and 11 have come in the past three games alone — 65 percent in the past five contests. Washington will stick with rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins after the Week 10 bye. He has made three appearances, throwing four interceptions without a touchdown pass. Oddly, the one start was the only game without a turnover. Averaging only 6.5 yards per attempt, it is obvious he is tentative to push the ball down the field, and the expected points against the Jets should be low. New York is coming off of its top fantasy effort since Week 3 with six sacks, two takeaways and a defensive TD.

Availability: 67%
FAAB: $0-1