Introduction

As the NFL regular season draws to a thrilling close, Week 17 marks Championship Week for many fantasy football leagues—a pivotal moment where dreams of glory either blossom or fizzle out. With the stakes at their highest, fantasy managers must navigate critical lineup decisions that can make or break their championship aspirations. In this article, we’ll highlight players to start, sit, and some potential sleepers to keep an eye on for a triumphant finale.

Start 'Em

Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals (at CIN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,700]: Despite a challenging season, Brissett has been a consistent performer, ranking sixth in fantasy points among quarterbacks since Week 6. A matchup against a struggling Bengals defense could spell success.

Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (at MIA) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,600]: After a tough recent stretch, Mayfield faces the Dolphins, who have allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to quarterbacks, making him a solid play this week.

Michael Carter, Arizona Cardinals (at CIN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,200]: As the Cardinals' lead back, Carter is in a prime position to capitalize against a Bengals defense that struggles against the run.

Jauan Jennings, San Francisco 49ers (vs. CHI) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,600]: Jennings has scored in six out of his last seven games, making him a reliable option against a Bears defense that gives up plenty of fantasy points to wide receivers.

Sit 'Em

Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills (vs. PHI) [DraftKings DFS Value: $7,000]: While Allen is a top quarterback, his recent performance and a tough matchup against the Eagles' defense suggest caution this week.

R.J. Harvey, Denver Broncos (at KC) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,500]: Despite recent success, Harvey’s past performance against the Chiefs raises red flags for fantasy managers.

Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts (vs. JAX) [DraftKings DFS Value: $7,800]: Taylor’s struggles against a formidable Jaguars run defense make him a risky start this week.

Sleeper Picks

Geno Smith, Las Vegas Raiders (vs. NYG) [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,400]: Smith has shown flashes of brilliance recently, and a favorable matchup against the Giants could allow him to shine.

Parker Washington, Jacksonville Jaguars (at IND) [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,800]: Coming off a strong performance, Washington could capitalize on the Colts’ weak pass defense this week.

Defense Strategies

New Orleans Saints Defense (at TEN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,500]: The Saints are on a three-game win streak, facing a Titans team that has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to defenses this season.

Pittsburgh Steelers Defense (at CLE) [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,300]: Aiming for an AFC North title, the Steelers defense has a favorable matchup against the turnover-prone Browns.

Conclusion

With so much on the line in Week 17, careful consideration of these start/sit recommendations can lead fantasy managers toward championship glory. The thrill of NFL football reaches its peak as we embrace an exhilarating conclusion to the season!