Fantasy football inactives, injuries and weather: Week 17

Week 17 weather, injury updates and gameday inactives for the fantasy football lineup decisions.

Sunday updates will begin when teams start releasing official pregame inactives and starter information to the league. This is typically around 60-90 minutes prior to the kickoff of their game.

Weather forecasts are courtesy of The Football Database.

Week 17 gameday inactives, weather and notes

KEY GAME-TIME DECISIONS

Early games: QB Kyler Murray (active), TE Cole Kmet (active), RB Josh Jacobs (inactive), WR Puka Nacua (active), RB Raheem Mostert (inactive), WR Zay Flowers (active), TE Hunter Henry (inactive), RB Alvin Kamara (active), WR Michael Pittman Jr. (active)
Afternoon games: WR DK Metcalf (active), RB Kenneth Walker III (active), WR Jerry Jeudy (active), WR Ja’Marr Chase (active)
Sunday night: WR Jordan Addison (active)


New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 34°F, cloudy

Patriots

Inactives: RB JaMycal Hasty, DT Sam Roberts, OT Trent Brown, TE Hunter Henry, WR Kayshon Boutte, SS Jabrill Peppers and QB Nathan Rourke

Lineup notes: RB Rhamondre Stevenson (ankle) went on IR, and WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (ankle) joined him on Saturday. TE Hunter Henry (knee) will miss another game, and LT Trent Brown joins him as an apparent healthy scratch after being cleared of an early-week illness. CB Jonathan Jones (knee) and S Kyle Dugger (illness) are active. S Jabrill Peppers (hamstring) went on IR.

Bills

Inactives: OG Alec Anderson, CB Kaiir Elam, S Damar Hamlin, DL Linval Joseph and LB Von Miller

Lineup notes: S Micah Hyde (neck) didn’t garner an injury tag and will be back on the field. EDGE Von Miller is a healthy scratch.


Atlanta Falcons at Chicago Bears (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 36°F, cloudy, WNW 10 mph

Falcons

Inactives: QB Logan Woodside, DE Joe Gaziano, OT John Leglue, DT Tommy Togiai, TE John FitzPatrick and OG Jovaughn Gwyn

Lineup notes: RT Kaleb McGary (knee) is ready to roll.

Bears

Inactives: LB DeMarquis Gates, QB Nathan Peterman, S Quindell Johnson, RB D’Onta Foreman, OT Ja’Tyre Carter and WR Darnell Mooney

Lineup notes: WR Darnell Mooney (concussion) is out. TE Cole Kmet (knee) and C Lucas Patrick (knee) will be out there. RB D’Onta Foreman will not be available.


Las Vegas Raiders at Indianapolis Colts (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 34°F, cloudy, W 11 mph (retractable-roof dome)

Raiders

Inactives: C Hroniss Grasu, RB Josh Jacobs, DB Tyler Hall, TE Zach Gentry, QB Brian Hoyer, DL Byron X. Young and TE Michael Mayer

Lineup notes: RB Josh Jacobs (quadriceps) is inactive after sitting out all week. TE Michael Mayer (toe) also will not play again.

Colts

Inactives: DT Adetomiwa Adebawore, OG Jack Anderson, LB Cameron McGrone, DB Henry Black, RB Zack Moss and DB Kenny Moore II

Lineup notes: RB Zack Moss (forearm) is out. WR Michael Pittman Jr. (concussion, shoulder) and RT Braden Smith (knee) are ready to roll. CB Kenny Moore (back) couldn’t get ready in time.


Los Angeles Rams at New York Giants (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 39°F, cloudy

Rams

Inactives: OT Alaric Jackson, CB Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, DE Ochaun Mathis, DE Earnest Brown and RB Zach Evans

Lineup notes: WR Puka Nacua (hip) is active after sitting out Friday.

Giants

Inactives: S Gervarrius Owens, OG Sean Harlow, DL Timmy Horne, LB Benton Whitley, WR Dennis Houston, CB Deonte Banks and WR Parris Campbell

Lineup notes: RT Evan Neal (ankle) went on IR. WR Wan’Dale Robinson (quadriceps) is ready after limited work Friday. RB Saquon Barkley (elbow) and TE Darren Waller (knee) practiced Friday and will go. PK Mason Crosby was elevated to the 53-man roster.


Arizona Cardinals at Philadelphia Eagles (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 42°F, cloudy

Cardinals

Inactives: OT Dennis Daley, LB Trevor Nowaske, TE Blake Whiteheart, DE Cameron Thomas, OT Carter O’Donnell and S Qwuantrezz Knight

Lineup notes: WR Marquise Brown (heel) went on IR and is out for the season. QB Kyler Murray (illness) is active after limited work and a questionable designation on Friday.

Eagles

Inactives: DT Marlon Tuipulotu, CB Bradley Roby, QB Tanner McKee, OT Tyler Steen, LB Zach Cunningham and CB Darius Slay

Lineup notes: LG Landon Dickerson (thumb) practiced all week and is good to go. LB Zach Cunningham (knee) downgraded on Saturday from questionable to doubtful and won’t be out there. CB Darius Slay (knee) also will not play.


New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 63°F, mostly clear

Saints

Inactives: RB Kendre Miller, DL Isaiah Foskey, LB Monty Rice, CB Cameron Dantzler, QB Jake Haener and CB Lonnie Johnson

Lineup notes: RT Ryan Ramczyk (knee) went on IR. RB Alvin Kamara (illness) was questionable but will play. RB Kendre Miller (ankle) is not available. WR Chris Olave (ankle) was limited Friday but will be able to play.

Buccaneers

Inactives: LB Shaquil Barrett, DT Deadrin Senat, OT Brandon Walton, TE Ko Kieft, CB Carlton Davis, LB JJ Russell and QB John Wolford

Lineup notes: LB Shaq Barrett (groin) and CB Carlton Davis (concussion protocol) have been ruled out.


San Francisco 49ers at Washington Commanders (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 44°F, partly cloudy

49ers

Inactives: DL Arik Armstead, QB Brandon Allen, LB Jalen Graham, WR Jauan Jennings, OG Jaylon X. Moore, S Ji’Ayir Brown and TE Ross Dwelley

Lineup notes: RB Elijah Mitchell (knee), WR Deebo Samuel (neck), LT Trent Williams (groin) and QB Brock Purdy (shoulder) practiced Friday and will go. DT Arik Armstead (foot/knee) won’t be out there.

Commanders

Inactives: QB Jacoby Brissett, TE Cole Turner, DE Jalen Harris, OG Andrew Wylie, CB Kendall Fuller, CB Benjamin St-Juste and WR Mitchell Tinsley

Lineup notes: RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. (ankle) was placed on IR. QB Jacoby Brissett (hamstring) popped up as questionable Friday after limited work, and QB Sam Howell will start. RB Brian Robinson Jr. (hamstring) carries no injury designation after limited work all week. Washington placed LT Charles Leno (calf) placed and C Tyler Larsen (knee) were placed on IR.


Carolina Panthers at Jacksonville Jaguars (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 58°F, clear

Panthers

Inactives: CB CJ Henderson, OT Ricky Lee, OT Ilm Manning, WR Terrace Marshall Jr., WR Mike Strachan, CB Troy Hill and DT Chris Wormley

Lineup notes: LT Ikem Ekwonu (foot) is active after limited practices Thursday and Friday. RB Chuba Hubbard (hamstring), RB Miles Sanders (toe) and RT Taylor Moton (knee) are expected to go. CB Troy Hill (concussion) was ruled out, but CB Jaycee Horn (toe) is active despite being listed as questionable.

Jaguars

Inactives: DT Angelo Blackson, OG Cole Van Lanen, QB Trevor Lawrence, LB Yasir Abdullah and WR Zay Jones

Lineup notes: QB Trevor Lawrence (shoulder) is out. QB C.J. Beathard (shoulder) practiced all week and will start. WR Zay Jones (knee, hamstring) is inactive, whereas LT Cam Robinson (knee) was activated from IR. OT Walker Little (hamstring) had limited work Friday but is good to go.


Miami Dolphins at Baltimore Ravens (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 45°F, partly cloudy

Dolphins

Inactives: RB Raheem Mostert, DL Emmanuel Ogbah, OT Robert Hunt, QB Skylar Thompson, WR Jaylen Waddle and TE Tyler Kroft

Lineup notes: WR Jaylen Waddle (ankle) is out. RG Robert Hunt (hamstring) won’t go, but RT Austin Jackson (oblique) is ready. RB Raheem Mostert (knee, ankle) couldn’t get right in time. WR Tyreek Hill (ankle), QB Tua Tagovailoa (thumb, quadriceps) and RB De’Von Achane (toe) had a full session Friday and will play. CB Xavien Howard (hip/thumb), CB Jalen Ramsey (knee), and S Jevon Holland (knees) were questionable but are active.

Ravens

Inactives: OG Kevin Zeitler, CB Brandon Stephens, S Kyle Hamilton, OT Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, QB Malik Cunningham, QB Josh Johnson and CB Damarion Williams

Lineup notes: TE Mark Andrews (ankle) and RB Keaton Mitchell (knee) will end the season on IR. WR Zay Flowers (calf) is active after being a game-time decision. RG Kevin Zeitler (knee, quadriceps) and S Kyle Hamilton (knee) can’t go.


Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 68°F, clear

Titans

Inactives: CB Tre Avery, OG Calvin Throckmorton, LB Trevis Gipson, DT Quinton Bohanna, TE Trevon Wesco, WR Kyle Philips and QB Malik Willis

Lineup notes: QB Will Levis (ankle) practiced Friday and will start.

Texans

Inactives: TE Andrew Beck, QB Case Keenum, DL Maliek Collins, LB Jonathan Greenard and OT Joshua Jones

Lineup notes: QB C.J. Stroud (concussion), WR Nico Collins (calf), WR Noah Brown (knee) and LT Laremy Tunsil (knee) practiced Friday and will play. DE Will Anderson Jr. (ankle) and DT Sheldon Rankins (ankle) are active.

Late afternoon games


Pittsburgh Steelers at Seattle Seahawks (4:05 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 47°F, cloudy

Steelers

Inactives: CB Darius Rush, DL DeMarvin Leal, OT Dylan Cook, S Minkah Fitzpatrick, LB Elandon Roberts, S Trenton Thompson and QB Kenny Pickett

Lineup notes: QB Kenny Pickett (ankle) is out, and QB Mason Rudolph will start. RB Najee Harris (knee) will play after a full practice Friday. LB Elandon Roberts (pectoral), S Minkah Fitzpatrick (knee), and S Trenton Thompson (neck) were ruled out.

Seahawks

Inactives: CB Kelvin Joseph, OT Raiqwon O’Neal, RB Kenny McIntosh, OT Jason Peters, DL Mario Edwards Jr., OG McClendon Curtis and LB Jordyn Brooks

Lineup notes: RB Kenneth Walker III (shoulder, illness) and WR DK Metcalf (back) are active. TE Noah Fant (knee) and WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (knee) had full practices Friday and will go. S Jamal Adams (knee) was placed on injured reserve. LB Jordyn Brooks (ankle) isn’t ready, but CB Devon Witherspoon (hip) will be out there.


Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos (4:25 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 37°F, cloudy

Chargers

Inactives: WR Keenan Allen, LB Kenneth Murray, DL Nick Williams, TE Donald Parham, WR Joshua Palmer, OG Zion Johnson and S JT Woods

Lineup notes: LB Joey Bosa (foot), WR Keenan Allen (heel) and WR Joshua Palmer (concussion) are out. LT Rashawn Slater (ankle) had a full practice Friday and will play. LG Zion Johnson (neck) won’t be available.

Broncos

Inactives: WR Marvin Mims, C Alex Forsyth, LB Baron Browning, S JL Skinner, DL Thomas Incoom, DT Elijah Garcia and WR Courtland Sutton

Lineup notes: TE Greg Dulcich (hamstring, foot) and WR Courtland Sutton (concussion) are out. WR Jerry Jeudy (illness) will tough it out, whereas WR Marvin Mims (hamstring) couldn’t get healthy enough in time. WR Phillip Dorsett was elevated to the active roster. QB Russell Wilson was benched for QB Jarrett Stidham.


Cincinnati Bengals at Kansas City Chiefs (4:25 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 33°F, cloudy, NNW 10 mph

Bengals

Inactives: OT D’Ante Smith, DT Travis Bell, CB Jalen Davis, C Trey Hill and RB Chris Evans

Lineup notes: WR Ja’Marr Chase (shoulder) is active. RB Joe Mixon (ankle) was limited Friday, but he carries no injury designation. CB Cam Taylor-Britt (ankle) was activated from injured reserve.

Chiefs

Inactives: DL Malik Herring, DE B.J. Thompson, OT Donovan Smith, DT Neil Farrell, RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, WR Kadarius Toney and CB Nic Jones

Lineup notes: WR Skyy Moore (knee) and now RB Jerick McKinnon (groin) are on IR. LT Donovan Smith (neck) and WR Kadarius Toney (hip) are out. RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (illness) won’t be out there, either, but RB Isiah Pacheco (concussion, shoulder) is good to go. WR Mecole Hardman (thumb) came off IR and was removed from the injury report on Saturday. RB Keaontay Ingram was elevated from the practice squad. CB L’Jarius Sneed (calf) will give it a whirl.


Sunday Night Football

Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings (8:20 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: Dome stadium

Packers

Inactives: LB De’Vondre Campbell, WR Dontayvion Wicks, DL Brenton Cox, OT Caleb Jones and WR Christian Watson

Lineup notes: CB Jaire Alexander was suspended by the team for one game. LB De’Vondre Campbell (neck) and WR Christian Watson (hamstring) are inactive. WR Dontayvion Wicks (chest, ankle) also won’t be available. RB AJ Dillon (thumb), RB Aaron Jones (knee, finger), WR Jayden Reed (toe, chest) were limited Friday but are good to go.

Vikings

Inactives: OG Chris Reed, WR Jalen Nailor, DT Jaquelin Roy, CB Theo Jackson, OT Hakeem Adeniji, CB Byron Murphy and QB Joshua Dobbs

Lineup notes: TE T.J. Hockenson (knee) went on IR and is out for the season. WR Jordan Addison (ankle) overcame a questionable listing and will be out there. RB Alexander Mattison (ankle) had a full session Friday and will play as a reserve.

Fantasy football injury report: Week 17

Latest status of fantasy football weapons who are on the mend entering Week 17.

This is a team-by-team review of any key fantasy football player injury news after this week’s practice activity and team statements. Only those players listed on the team’s official injury report will be addressed, unless the situation warrants further attention.

PLEASE NOTE: The NFL releases its final official injury report each Friday (approximately 5:30 p.m. ET). West Coast teams often report their injuries late and may not be included in the initial publication.

Week 17 fantasy football injury report

This week’s key game-time decisions: QB Kyler Murray, TE Cole Kmet, WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Isiah Pacheco, WR Jordan Addison, RB Josh Jacobs, WR Jerry Jeudy, WR Puka Nacua, RB Raheem Mostert, WR Zay Flowers, TE Hunter Henry, RB Alvin Kamara, RB Kenneth Walker III, WR DK Metcalf

ARIZONA CARDINALS
WR Marquise Brown
(heel) went on IR and is out for the season. QB Kyler Murray (illness) is questionable after limited work Friday.

ATLANTA FALCONS 
RT Kaleb McGary (knee) is questionable again after limited work Friday.

BALTIMORE RAVENS 
TE Mark Andrews (ankle) and RB Keaton Mitchell (knee) remain on IR. WR Zay Flowers (calf) is questionable after a limited session Friday. RG Kevin Zeitler (knee, quadriceps) is questionable after a full session Friday.

BUFFALO BILLS 
No injuries of fantasy relevance.

CAROLINA PANTHERS 
LT Ikem Ekwonu (foot) is questionable after limited practices Thursday and Friday. RB Chuba Hubbard (hamstring), RB Miles Sanders (toe) and RT Taylor Moton (knee) are expected to go.

CHICAGO BEARS 
WR Darnell Mooney (concussion) is out. TE Cole Kmet (knee) is questionable but upgraded to limited work Friday. C Lucas Patrick (knee) is questionable after limited work Friday.

CINCINNATI BENGALS
WR Ja’Marr Chase (shoulder) is questionable after limited work Thursday and Friday. RB Joe Mixon (ankle) was limited Friday, but he carries no injury designation.

CLEVELAND BROWNS – Played Thursday
WR Amari Cooper (heel) was out.

DALLAS COWBOYS – Saturday night
RB Rico Dowdle (ankle) is out. LT Tyron Smith (back) is questionable after limited work Thursday.

DENVER BRONCOS 
TE Greg Dulcich (hamstring, foot) and WR Courtland Sutton (concussion) are out. WR Jerry Jeudy (illness) and WR Marvin Mims (hamstring) are questionable. Neither practiced Friday.

DETROIT LIONS – Saturday night
LT Taylor Decker (groin) will play after a full practice Thursday.

GREEN BAY PACKERS 
TE Luke Musgrave (kidney) and WR Christian Watson (hamstring) are doubtful. Musgrave was limited all week, and Watson didn’t practice. WR Dontayvion Wicks (chest, ankle) is questionable but didn’t practice all week. RB AJ Dillon (thumb), RB Aaron Jones (knee, finger), WR Jayden Reed (toe, chest) were limited Friday but are good to go.

HOUSTON TEXANS
QB C.J. Stroud (concussion), WR Nico Collins (calf), WR Noah Brown (knee) and LT Laremy Tunsil (knee) practiced Friday and will play.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 
RB Zack Moss (forearm) is out. WR Michael Pittman Jr. (concussion, shoulder) is questionable but had full sessions Thursday and Friday. RT Braden Smith (knee) is questionable but practiced all week.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 
QB Trevor Lawrence (shoulder) is out. QB C.J. Beathard (shoulder) practiced all week and will start. WR Zay Jones (knee, hamstring) and LT Cam Robinson (knee) are questionable. LT Walker Little (hamstring) had limited work Friday but is good to go.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS 
WR Skyy Moore (knee) and now RB Jerick McKinnon (groin) are on IR.  LT Donovan Smith (neck) and WR Kadarius Toney (hip) are out. RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (illness) and RB Isiah Pacheco (concussion, shoulder) are questionable. CEH didn’t practice Thursday or Friday, but Pacheco had limited work Friday. WR Mecole Hardman (thumb) came off IR and is questionable.

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
RB Josh Jacobs (quadriceps) is doubtful after sitting out all week.

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
EDGE Joey Bosa (foot), WR Keenan Allen (heel) and WR Joshua Palmer (concussion) are out. LT Rashawn Slater (ankle) had a full practice Friday and will play.

LOS ANGELES RAMS
WR Puka Nacua (hip) is questionable after sitting out Friday.

MIAMI DOLPHINS 
WR Jaylen Waddle (ankle) is out. RG Robert Hunt (hamstring) is doubtful. RB Raheem Mostert (knee, ankle) is questionable but upgraded to limited work Friday. WR Tyreek Hill (ankle), QB Tua Tagovailoa (thumb, quadriceps) and RB De’Von Achane (toe) had a full session Friday and will play.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS
TE T.J. Hockenson (knee) went on IR and is out for the season. WR Jordan Addison (ankle) is questionable after limited work Thursday and Friday. RB Alexander Mattison (ankle) had a full session Friday and will play.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
RB Rhamondre Stevenson (ankle) went on IR and is done for the season. WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (ankle) is out again. TE Hunter Henry (knee) is questionable after limited work all week.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
RT Ryan Ramczyk (knee) is out. RB Alvin Kamara (illness) didn’t practice Friday and is questionable. RB Kendre Miller (ankle) is questionable as well after limited work all week. WR Chris Olave (ankle) was limited Friday but will be able to play.

NEW YORK GIANTS 
WR Wan’Dale Robinson (quadriceps) is questionable after limited work Friday. RB Saquon Barkley (elbow) and TE Darren Waller (knee) practiced Friday and will go.

NEW YORK JETS – Played Thursday
QB Aaron Rodgers (Achilles) and QB Zach Wilson (concussion) remain out.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES 
LG Landon Dickerson (thumb) practiced all week and is good to go.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS 
QB Kenny Pickett (ankle) is questionable after limited sessions all week. RB Najee Harris (knee) will play after a full practice Friday.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS 
RB Elijah Mitchell (knee), WR Deebo Samuel (neck), LT Trent Williams (groin) and QB Brock Purdy (shoulder) practiced Friday and will go.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS 
RB Kenneth Walker III (shoulder, illness) and WR DK Metcalf (back) are questionable. Walker was limited Friday, but Metcalf was out. TE Noah Fant (knee) and WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (knee) had full practices Friday and will go.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
No injuries of fantasy relevance.

TENNESSEE TITANS
QB Will Levis (ankle) practiced Friday and will play.

WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. (ankle) was placed on IR. QB Jacoby Brissett (hamstring) popped up as questionable Friday after limited work. RB Brian Robinson Jr. (hamstring) carries no injury designation after limited work all week.

Fantasy football start ’em, sit ’em: Week 17 championship

Check out these starts and sits for Week 17.

The fantasy football season comes to a close for the majority of leagues this week, which means managers have just one more weekend of making start/sit decisions in their lineups.

Doing start/sit articles can be a little challenging. The players featured on the list below should not be taken as “must starts” or “must sits.” Instead, these are more suggestions on what we believe managers should do with fringe players heading into the weekend. The choice is ultimately up to the manager.

Just because a player is listed as a “start” doesn’t mean he should be put in the lineup over the secure, bona fide studs. Vice versa for the “sits.” If there’s no better option on the waiver wire or the bench, a manager shouldn’t automatically sit the player. That’s why these can be tricky waters to navigate.

Feel free to ask any specific start/sit questions via X, formerly Twitter, (@KevinHickey11), or check out our start/bench list for Week 17:

The best fantasy football gamble of Week 17

There’s sneaky value to be found in this versatile wideout.

Every week, at least one player becomes my fascination of whether he’s worthy of a fantasy football start as a streamer. The decision can be a mental wrestling match, but for the purpose of brevity, only one player can be chosen as my favorite fantasy football gamble of the week.

The players chosen in this series are meant to be fliers for fantasy owners in desperate situations or those willing to take an intentional risk. No player is intended to be a lineup lock for guaranteed results, hence the name of the series.

The best fantasy football gamble for Week 17

Tracking my 2023 predictions: 7-9-0
All-time record: 26-40-3 (39.9%)

Win: Player produces ≥ 75% of projected fantasy points
Loss: Player produces >75% of projected fantasy points
Tie: Player is ejected, leaves with an injury, or is ruled out after publishing

This year, we’ll also track the accuracy on a percentage basis to show relative results, since sometimes calling a player a loss doesn’t actually hurt gamers. An example would be if a projection narrowly falls short of the 75 percent threshold, the player is still of use in a lineup.

Wk 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
% 55 74 41 20 150 66 16 25 88 121 138 80 87 64% 48% 95%
Grade E C F- F- A+ D F- F- B+ A+ A+ B- B+ D F A

As they say in golf, there are no pictures on the scorecard. The Week 16 selection of Minnesota Vikings quarterback Nick Mullens was a solid win for this article’s purposes, but it didn’t play out as foreseen. Mullens threw for 123 more yards than projected, which helped buoy his value after coming one TD pass short and tossing three more picks than forecasted. His strong fantasy day was good enough for QB9 overall in the fantasy divisional round, presuming your league doesn’t overly penalize for gifting the ball to the opposing team.

This week, we head to the East Coast and put faith in one of the game’s most erratic wide receivers going against a name-brand defense that alone might deter otherwise intrigued gamers.

Washington Commanders WR Curtis Samuel vs. San Francisco 49ers

The inspiration behind playing Samuel really isn’t based much on what he has done but more so the extenuating circumstances around him. Washington moves on to veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett as the starter after he made relief appearances for a struggling Sam Howell each of the last two games. (12/29 update: Brissett suffered a hamstring injury and is questionable, but Samuel’s recommendation still stands with either quarterback. It’s slightly safer with Brissett, however.) Typically more of a game manager, Brissett is still capable of spinning it but offers more appeal for his ability to diagnose defenses and get through his progressions. Samuel is a primary checkdown read on many plays, and he also will get his number dialed up for manufactured touches.

Samuel has posted three double-digit PPR showings in the last four games, although Week 16’s was a flop with just three points to his credit vs. the toughest fantasy defense of his position. But it wasn’t for a lack of trying as he was targeted six times and rushed the ball on four plays. The prior week, vs. the Los Angeles Rams, this former Carolina Panther went for a 5-41-2 line through the air, and the second touchdown came from Brissett’s hand.

Prior to that recent four-game stretch, Samuel was utterly useless in fantasy, topping out at 6.5 points in PPR scoring over the previous month of play. Earlier in the year, his streakiness was on full display with Samuel going for 11 or more points in four of the first six outings.

So we’ve established most of the risk here comes from Samuel himself, but there’s also the factor of his opponent. The 49ers instill fear in many fantasy owners who blindly take name value into consideration.

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Make no mistake, this isn’t a knee-jerk reaction to the San Francisco’s defense getting thumped last week by Baltimore, but some of this recommendation is actually nod to how the Niners should respond on offense rather than defense. You can be sure the 49ers will be looking to run up the score a week after Brock Purdy tossed four interceptions. That is a recipe to force Washington to hoist the rock all day long, which will benefit Samuel, especially if San Francisco blankets Terry McLaurin.

In the last five weeks, the position has averaged the 14th-most catches per game, resulting in four touchdowns at the 20th-highest rate. The 128.4 yards allowed, on average, checks in as the ninth fewest. On the year, the position has fared much better. WRs have posted 13 receiving scores in 15 games, and 19 players have tallied at least 10 PPR points.

It’s unlikely the injury-ravaged Washington backfield will do much on the ground, and we could see Samuel be called upon to act as a short-area extension of the running game to help eliminate a lot of third-and-long scenarios. Plus, there’s always the potential bonus if Washington utilizes Samuel as an occasional rusher.

What is the expected baseline here to consider starting Samuel a success? Something in the neighborhood of WR3 returns should make the juice worth the squeeze, but there’s upside for more if Washington has to pass north of 40 times.

My projection: 8 targets, 5 receptions, 63 yards, 1 TD, 1 rush, 4 yards (17.7 PPR points)

Fantasy football IDP free-agent report: Week 17

Check your waiver wire for these IDP options ahead of Week 17.

Two weeks left in the season, and whether you’re in the fantasy playoffs or a season-long grind, there are important decisions to make on the defensive side of the ball.

Each week, we’ll highlight diamonds in the rough or some players that just need to be rostered in more leagues on the defensive side of the ball. Keep in mind your scoring system and roster restraints when heading to the waiver wire to grab these IDPs.

Defensive linemen

DE Malcolm Koonce, Las Vegas Raiders

DE Maxx Crosby is drawing all the attention on the other side, and he hasn’t had a sack in the last two games. Koonce has five! He had two forced fumbles two weeks ago and six tackles last week. He faces the Indianapolis Colts this week, who have allowed the sixth-most points to the position the last five weeks. Put him atop your wish list.

DT Christian Barmore, New England Patriots

The 315-pound tackle has been feasting on quarterbacks the last two weeks. He has 12 tackles, four sacks, and a forced fumble combined in the last two games. He has a “meh” matchup against the Buffalo Bills this week, but it’s hard to ignore what he has done of late.

Linebackers

LB Shaquille Leonard, Philadelphia Eagles

He may have been picked up and stashed when he signed with the Eagles, but it took a few weeks for him to get acclimated. He showed he still has some fantasy prowess left in the tank with seven tackles and a sack in Week 16. He has a midrange matchup against the Arizona Cardinals this week and is at least a flex candidate.

LB Duke Riley, Miami Dolphins

Riley has been steady at the position the last four weeks. He broke out with eight tackles in Week 13 and has delivered five tackles in three straight games. He sprinkled in a half-sack and a pass defense, but you’re not looking for elite counting numbers here. He provides a high floor, though.

[lawrence-related id=486314]

LB Myles Jack, Pittsburgh Steelers

He went back to the practice squad after a solid Week 16 game, so this may be a fringe candidate. However, he delivered six tackles and a sack in his first action of 2023. The Seattle Seahawks are the toughest matchup against LBs in Week 17, but he’s a good depth piece if you’re still playing come Week 18.

Defensive backs

SS D’Anthony Bell, Cleveland Browns

Bell has settled in as the starter and produced the last three weeks. In Week 16, he had six tackles, a forced fumble, and two pass defenses. Bell had five tackles and an INT in Week 15. So the production continues to increase, and he has a midrange matchup against the New York Jets.

CB Desmond King, Houston Texans

After 11 tackles in Week 16, King has at least 10 tackles in three of the last four weeks. He had a one-tackle game in there, too, and those are the ebbs and flows you deal with when using corners. He’ll have a midrange matchup against the Tennessee Titans this week.

S Jartavius Martin, Washington Commanders

Martin had his worst game in Week 16 over the last three weeks. He secured only six tackles. That shows how good he was in the two previous games with 10 tackles and a sack and seven tackles. There’s a midrange matchup against the San Francisco 49ers for him this week to build on his binge.

Fantasy football waiver wire: Week 17 free-agent forecast

Check out the top waiver wire targets in fantasy football for Week 17.

The majority of fantasy football leagues come to an end this week. It has been a long and grueling process to the point, and most of us have been left with disappointment with championship week upon us.

However, there are still plenty of vital matchups taking place, and the waiver wire should be a busy marketplace in Week 17 after the events that unfolded on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Before we get to it, I’d like to thank you for sticking with us all season. We wouldn’t be here without the readers, and even though the suggestions haven’t always worked out, we’re appreciative of the time you’ve spent with us this season.

We’ll be taking a look at the top available players rostered in Yahoo leagues, using the 75% rostered mark as the threshold. If you have any questions about prioritizing a certain player over another, don’t be afraid to hit me up on X, formerly Twitter, (@KevinHickey11). Your questions and comments are always welcome!

Because it’s Week 17, there is no need for stashing players so we’ll only look at the top streaming options for the upcoming week along with the top waiver adds.

Fantasy football waiver wire recommendations refer to 12-team league formats, unless specifically stated.

Check back for any updates throughout Monday and Tuesday as more injury news becomes available.

Fantasy Football: 10 utilization stats to know from Week 17

Here are the top fantasy football utilization stats you need to know from Week 17 ahead of the NFL’s regular-season finale this week. 

Here are the top fantasy football utilization stats you need to know from Week 17 ahead of the NFL’s regular-season finale this week.

Gameday inactives, injuries and weather: Week 17

Week 17 weather, injury updates and gameday inactives for the fantasy football championship round.

Sunday updates will begin when teams start releasing official pregame inactives and starter information to the league. This is typically around 60-90 minutes prior to the kickoff of their game.

Weather forecasts are courtesy of The Football Database.

Week 17 gameday inactives, weather and notes

KEY GAME-TIME DECISIONS

Early games: WR Chase Claypool (active), WR Jerry Jeudy (active), RB Rhamondre Stevenson (active), WR Chris Olave (active)
Afternoon games: WR Tyler Lockett (active), WR Christian Watson (active), TE Tyler Higbee (active)
Sunday night:
Monday night:

Arizona Cardinals at Atlanta Falcons (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: Dome stadium

Cardinals

Inactives: QB Colt McCoy, CB Marco Wilson, CB Antonio Hamilton, WR DeAndre Hopkins, DE Victor Dimukeje, DL Zach Allen and OG Rashaad Coward

Lineup notes: QB Kyler Murray (knee), WR Rondale Moore (groin) and S Budda Baker (shoulder) will end the season on IR. QB Colt McCoy (concussion) is out again as well. WR DeAndre Hopkins (knee) also will not play. QB David Blough will start. RB James Conner (illness) and WR A.J. Green (illness) practiced Friday and are good to go.

Falcons

Inactives: DL David Anenih, CB Rashad Fenton, DE Matt Dickerson, S Micah Abernathy, OT Elijah Wilkinson and TE Feleipe Franks

Lineup notes: No injuries of fantasy relevance.

Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 72 degrees, mostly cloudy, 100% humidity (retractable-roof dome)

Jaguars

Inactives: DB Tevaughn Campbell, CB Montaric Brown, DE Jeremiah Ledbetter, LB De’Shaan Dixon and WR Kendric Pryor

Lineup notes: QB Trevor Lawrence (toe) will continue to play through injury.

Texans

Inactives: QB Kyle Allen, C Jimmy Morrissey, TE Teagan Quitoriano, DT Thomas Booker and DB Jacobi Francis

Lineup notes: RB Dameon Pierce (ankle) and WR Nico Collins (foot) are out for the season. RB Dare Ogunbowale (knee) will be available after earning a questionable label.

Indianapolis Colts at New York Giants (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 53 degrees, clear, WNW 10 mph

Colts

Inactives: QB Matt Ryan, WR Ashton Dulin, C Wesley French, LB Cameron McGrone, DL Eric Johnson, DB Kenny Moore II and TE Kylen Granson

Lineup notes: DE Yannick Ngakoue (throat) was placed on injured reserve.

Giants

Inactives: LB Jarrad Davis, CB Adoree’ Jackson, OG Wyatt Davis, S Dane Belton, OG Jack Anderson, TE Lawrence Cager and CB Rodarius Williams

Lineup notes: S Xavier McKinney (hand) was activated from the Reserve/Injured list.

Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 72 degrees, overcast

Panthers

Inactives: LB Amare Barno, CB Jaycee Horn, CB Juston Burris, WR Rashard Higgins, OT Larnel Coleman and C Sam Tecklenburg

Lineup notes: CB Jaycee Horn (wrist) was ruled out.

Buccaneers

Inactives: WR Breshad Perriman, TE Cameron Brate, DL Carl Nassib, CB Carlton Davis and QB Kyle Trask

Lineup notes: WR Julio Jones (knee) will be available, and starting LT Donovan Smith (foot) makes his return. CB Jamel Dean (toe), S Mike Edwards (hamstring), DT Vita Vea (calf) and S Antoine Winfield (ankle) active, while CB Carlton Davis (shoulder) will not be available.

Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 51 degrees, partly cloudy

Broncos

Inactives: WR Montrell Washington, DT D.J. Jones, WR Freddie Swain, LB Baron Browning, QB Jarrett Guarantano, OT Calvin Anderson and RB Tyler Badie

Lineup notes: TE Greg Dulcich (hamstring) went on IR and is done. WR Kendall Hinton (hamstring) and WR Jerry Jeudy (ankle) were limited Friday but will play through questionable tags. WR Courtland Sutton (hamstring) is good to go.

Chiefs

Inactives: OG Darian Kinnard, DL Malik Herring, DE Joshua Kaindoh, QB Shane Buechele and OT Geron Christian

Lineup notes: No injuries of fantasy relevance.

New Orleans Saints at Philadelphia Eagles (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 52 degrees, clear

Saints

Inactives: S Marcus Maye, OG Andrus Peat, DE Tanoh Kpassagnon, WR Marquez Callaway, RB Dwayne Washington, S Justin Evans and LB Chase Hansen

Lineup notes: RB Mark Ingram (knee) and WR Jarvis Landry (ankle) are out for the season. WR Chris Olave (hamstring) overcame a questionable designation. RB Alvin Kamara (personal, quadriceps) practiced Friday and carries no injury designation. CB Marshon Lattimore (abdomen) makes his return this week.

Eagles

Inactives: QB Jalen Hurts, DE Janarius Robinson, OT Lane Johnson, CB Avonte Maddox, OG Sua Opeta and RB Trey Sermon

Lineup notes: QB Jalen Hurts (shoulder) remains out, so QB Gardner Minshew will start again. WR A.J. Brown (knee) and RB Miles Sanders (knee) will play.

Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 51 degrees, partly cloudy, WNW 12 mph

Dolphins

Inactives: TE Tanner Conner, OT Terron Armstead, LB Bradley Chubb, OT Eric Fisher, QB Tua Tagovailoa, WR Erik Ezukanma and CB Xavien Howard

Lineup notes: QB Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) is out with another concussion, and his season could be over with the short period of time between the injuries. QB Teddy Bridgewater (knee) practiced all week and is good to go. The defense will be without LB Bradley Chubb and CB Xavien Howard, while the offensive line is without its starting left tackle.

Patriots

Inactives: CB Jalen Mills, CB Marcus Jones, DT Sam Roberts, WR DeVante Parker, CB Shaun Wade, TE Jonnu Smith and RB Kevin Harris

Lineup notes: WR DeVante Parker (concussion) and TE Jonnu Smith (concussion) are both out. RB Rhamondre Stevenson (ankle) and TE Hunter Henry (knee) are active after drawing questionable tags. RB Damien Harris (thigh) is good to go. New England will be thin in the secondary this week.

Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: Dome stadium

Bears

Inactives: OT Ja’Tyre Carter, OT Alex Leatherwood, RB Darrynton Evans, S Sterling Weatherford, QB Tim Boyle and CB Breon Borders

Lineup notes: WR Chase Claypool (knee) was limited Thursday and Friday and deemed questionable but will play.

Lions

Inactives: OG Kayode Awosika, OG Ross Pierschbacher, SS DeShon Elliott, DE Austin Bryant, DL Michael Brockers and RB Justin Jackson

Lineup notes: No injuries of fantasy relevance.

Cleveland Browns at Washington Commanders (1:00 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 55 degrees, clear

Browns

Inactives: DE Isaiah Thomas, RB Demetric Felton, DT Ben Stille, QB Kellen Mond, OG Chris Hubbard, DB Thomas Graham and DT Tommy Togiai

Lineup notes: RB Kareem Hunt (shoulder) practiced all week and will be available.

Commanders

Inactives: QB Sam Howell, OT Chris Paul, S Kamren Curl, RB Antonio Gibson, CB Benjamin St-Juste, DL James Smith-Williams and OT Saahdiq Charles

Lineup notes: RB Antonio Gibson (knee, foot) has been ruled out, and S Kamren Curl (ankle) will not be available, either. RB Brian Robinson Jr. (quadriceps) practiced all week and is good to go. RB Jaret Patterson was elevated to the 53-man roster.

New York Jets at Seattle Seahawks (4:05 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 45 degrees, mostly cloudy

Jets

Inactives: RB James Robinson, CB Brandin Echols, TE Jeremy Ruckert, DL Vinny Curry, OG Nate Herbig and QB Zach Wilson

Lineup notes: QB Mike White (ribs) is ready to go after a full session Friday.

Seahawks

Inactives: OT Abraham Lucas, CB Artie Burns, RB Travis Homer, WR Penny Hart, LB Vi Jones, DT Isaiah Mack and DB Ryan Neal

Lineup notes: TE Will Dissly (knee) went on IR and is out for the year. WR Marquise Goodwin (shoulder, wrist) and TE Will Dissly (knee) were put on IR. WR Tyler Lockett (hand) and RB Kenneth Walker (ankle) were questionable but will play. RB DeeJay Dallas (ankle), TE Noah Fant (knee) and WR DK Metcalf (knee) had full sessions Friday and also will play.

San Francisco 49ers at Las Vegas Raiders (4:05 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: Dome stadium

49ers

Inactives: DL Akeem Spence, WR Deebo Samuel, QB Jimmy Garoppolo, OT Nick Zakelj, TE Ross Dwelley, DE Kemoko Turay and DT Kevin Givens

Lineup notes: RB Elijah Mitchell (knee) is on IR. QB Jimmy Garoppolo (foot) and WR Deebo Samuel (ankle, knee) are out again. RB Christian McCaffrey (knee) and QB Brock Purdy (oblique) practiced Friday and will go.

Raiders

Inactives: SS Ike Brown, OT Sebastian Gutierrez, DT Matthew Butler, DE Tashawn Bower, QB Derek Carr, OG Netane Muti and RB Zamir White

Lineup notes: QB Derek Carr was benched and made inactive with QB Jarrett Stidham taking over as the starter. LBs Denzel Perryman and Chandler Jones (elbow) was placed on IR.

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers (4:25 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 36 degrees, mostly cloudy

Vikings

Inactives: DL Ross Blacklock, DE James Lynch, LB Luiji Vilain, RB Ty Chandler, OT Vederian Lowe, C Garrett Bradbury and CB Kalon Barnes

Lineup notes: Starting C Garrett Bradbury (back) will not play once again.

Packers

Inactives: DT Jonathan Ford, CB Shemar Jean-Charles, WR Bo Melton, OT Caleb Jones, RB Tyler Goodson, LB Krys Barnes and OT Rasheed Walker

Lineup notes: WR Christian Watson (hip) didn’t fully practice all week but will play. He could be on a snap count, however. QB Aaron Rodgers (thumb, knee) will continue playing through his maladies.

Los Angeles Rams  Los Angeles Chargers (4:25 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 58 degrees, clear (open-air dome)

Rams

Inactives: DL Aaron Donald, CB Shaun Jolly, LB Travin Howard, WR Ben Skowronek, QB John Wolford and C Brian Allen

Lineup notes: WR Cooper Kupp (ankle) and QB Matthew Stafford (neck) remain on IR. DT Aaron Donald (ankle) and WR Ben Skowronek (calf) are out again. TE Tyler Higbee (elbow) was limited all week and has drawn the questionable tag but will be out there.

Chargers

Inactives: OT Storm Norton, S Derwin James, WR Michael Bandy, DT Tyeler Davison, QB Easton Stick, RB Zander Horvath and RB Isaiah Spiller

Lineup notes: S Derwin James (concussion) has been ruled out as LB Joey Bosa (groin) was activated from IR. RB Austin Ekeler (knee) was limited early in the week but managed a full session Friday and is good to go. RB Sony Michel was released, and RB Larry Rountree III was elevated from the practice squad.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens (8:20 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 46 degrees, clear

Steelers

Inactives: LB Malik Reed, QB Mason Rudolph, DT Jonathan Marshall, LB Tae Crowder, CB Tre Norwood and OG Kendrick Green

Lineup notes: WR Diontae Johnson (hip) had full practices this week and will go.

Ravens

Inactives: QB Lamar Jackson, CB Marcus Peters, LB David Ojabo, C Trystan Colon-Castillo, RB Kenyan Drake, TE Nick Boyle and DL Calais Campbell

Lineup notes: WR Devin Duvernay (foot) is out for the season. QB Lamar Jackson (knee) is out vs. the Steelers, and QB Tyler Huntley will once again start. The defense will be without key starters CB Marcus Peters and DL Calais Campbell.

Buffalo Bills at Cincinnati Bengals (8:15 p.m. EST)

Kickoff Weather: 56 degrees, rain

Bills

Lineup notes: QB Josh Allen (elbow) continues to play through an elbow injury. WR Stefon Diggs (illness) popped up on the report but will play.

Bengals

Lineup notes: TE Hayden Hurst (calf) avoided an injury tag and will be back on the field. RT La’el Collins (knee) was placed on IR.

Fantasy football start ’em, sit ’em: Week 17 championships

Check out these starts and sits for Week 17 of fantasy football.

The championship week in fantasy football has finally arrived, and managers will likely be stressing all weekend trying to figure out their optimal lineups in Week 17.

While there are fantasy managers on the outside looking in, we still can use these start/sits as a way to find an edge in DFS or prop betting during a week where the majority of championships are taking place.

Doing start/sit articles can be a little challenging. The players featured on the list below should not be taken as “must starts” or “must sits.” Instead, these are more suggestions on what we believe managers should do with fringe players heading into the weekend. The choice is ultimately up to the manager.

Just because a player is listed as a “start” doesn’t mean he should be put in the lineup over the secure, bona fide studs. Vice versa for the “sits.” If there’s no better option on the waiver wire or the bench, a manager shouldn’t automatically sit the player. That’s why these can be tricky waters to navigate.

You also can check out our start and sit bench list for Week 17:

Fantasy Football Market Report: Week 17

The latest players on the upswing and downswing entering Week 17.

One certainty in the NFL is turnover. Typically, only about half of the division winners repeat, teams that had losing records the previous year become winners, and undervalued fantasy players from those teams become unexpected lineup staples.

Last year, 12 NFL teams won 10 or more games – six in each conference. Of those, only three (Buffalo, Kansas City and Cincinnati) will repeat that feat. The other three (Tennessee, New England and Las Vegas) currently have losing records.

In the NFC, only two teams that had double-digit wins last season (San Francisco and Dallas) are going to repeat. The Green Bay Packers (13-4 in 2021) are 7-8 and on playoff life support. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (13-4 in ’21) are 7-8 and only in the playoff hunt because the NFC South is so bad. The Los Angeles Rams (12-5) and Arizona Cardinals (11-6) have a combined record of 9-21 this year.

When you start your preparation for the 2023 fantasy draft, keep in mind which teams look to be on the upswing but not quite there yet – teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Detroit Lions. Given the up-and-down nature of the NFL, they could be in for big things next year and will likely garner more credibility than they had coming into this season – which was almost none.

Here is the Week 17 Fantasy Football Market Report.