Introduction

It’s that exhilarating time of the year again—Championship Week in fantasy football! As the dust settles on Week 17, only two teams remain in the running for fantasy glory, while the rest will have to contemplate their near misses. With rosters packed with potential point-scorers, victory requires not just talent but also strategy and a sprinkle of luck. Fortunately, Bleacher Report is here to assist fantasy managers in making those critical decisions for the final showdown.

Quarterback Rankings

This week’s quarterback landscape resembles a patchwork quilt of talent and injuries. Starters such as Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens and Jordan Love of the Green Bay Packers are sidelined, opening the door for unexpected fantasy heroes.

Players to Watch

• Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals (at CIN): Brissett has emerged as a top-10 fantasy option, notably against a Bengals defense struggling against the pass.
• Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers (vs. CHI): Following two impressive outings, Purdy seeks to continue his hot streak.

Players to Avoid

• Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks (at CAR): Despite earlier promise, Darnold faces a tough matchup and ranks low this week.
• Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers (vs. HOU): Herbert's performance may be hampered against a challenging Texans defense.

Running Back Rankings

The running back position sees a host of challenges this week with injuries taking a toll on many rosters.

Players to Watch

• Bucky Irving, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (at MIA): Irving looks to break his season-long dry spell against a generous Dolphins defense.
• Ashton Jeanty, Las Vegas Raiders (vs. NYG): Jeanty had a breakout game last week and is poised for more against a weak Giants run defense.

Players to Avoid

• Derrick Henry, Baltimore Ravens (at GB): Henry's usage has been confusing, making him a risky start this week.
• Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts (vs. JAX): Facing the league's top run defense, Taylor could struggle to make an impact.

Wide Receiver Rankings

Rams' wide receiver Puka Nacua has elevated his game, putting him on the radar of fantasy managers nationwide.

Players to Watch

• Jauan Jennings, San Francisco 49ers (vs. CHI): Jennings has scored regularly and faces a favorable matchup this week.
• Drake London, Atlanta Falcons (vs. LAR): London could see increased targets as the Falcons play from behind.

Players to Avoid

• Ladd McConkey, Los Angeles Chargers (vs. HOU): With a dip in production, McConkey may struggle against a tight Texans pass defense.
• Michael Wilson, Arizona Cardinals (at CIN): Despite recent success, the Bengals offer a tough matchup.

Tight End Rankings

Recently, Kyle Pitts has stepped up for the Falcons, providing much-needed firepower to fantasy rosters as he leads his position in scoring.

Players to Watch

• Harold Fannin Jr., Cleveland Browns (vs. PIT): A bright spot in a tough season, Fannin is positioned well for a productive game.
• Tyler Warren, Indianapolis Colts (vs. JAX): Warren’s struggles may see a change this week against a vulnerable Jaguars defense.

Players to Avoid

• Dallas Goedert, Philadelphia Eagles (at BUF): Goedert faces a daunting matchup against the Bills’ stingy defense.
• Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans (at LAC): Schultz may find it difficult to shine against a strong Chargers pass defense.

Conclusion

Entering Week 17, the stakes couldn't be higher for fantasy managers. With crucial decisions to make, utilizing these rankings will be vital to achieving success. It's time to give it your all as the fantasy season reaches its thrilling conclusion.