Fantasy football managers may find themselves in a challenging situation as they look for quality options in the free-agent pool ahead of Week 12. With many players now rostered in less than five percent of leagues, this is a critical stage in the fantasy football season as the playoffs approach. Managers are faced with the choice of adding depth to their rosters or taking a risk with lower-percentage players. The sleeper picks highlighted this week aim to assist in both strategies, introducing new starters and players who could thrive as their respective offenses undergo changes.
One notable option comes from the New York Giants, who have decided to bench quarterback Daniel Jones. In his place, Tommy DeVito steps in, presenting a potentially favorable change for the Giants' passing attack. DeVito is not an unfamiliar name; he has prior experience in head coach Brian Daboll's offensive system, having played in nine games last season and demonstrating competence with 1,101 yards, eight touchdowns, and a 64 percent completion rate. His familiarity with key targets like Darius Slayton and Wan'Dale Robinson could enhance his performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who currently possess the lowest ranking in pass defense in the league. With the Buccaneers allowing the most fantasy points to quarterbacks, fantasy managers seeking a long shot may find value in starting DeVito.
The Chicago Bears are also making headlines after firing offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and promoting Thomas Brown to the interim position. Brown's game plan has focused on establishing the run, evidenced by a season-high 179 rushing yards against the Green Bay Packers' 14th-ranked run defense. Running back Roschon Johnson has been a key component in this resurgence, logging ten rush attempts in the latest matchup. Given the Bears' run-heavy approach and the performance of Johnson alongside D'Andre Swift, who also found success with 14 carries and a touchdown, Johnson could offer solid production despite a challenging matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, the top-ranked run defense in the league. However, with Swift managing a groin injury, Johnson may see an increase in touches as he takes on a prominent role in the backfield.
In Las Vegas, the Raiders are facing a potential injury crisis with running backs Alexander Mattison and Zamir White both nursing injuries. If both players are sidelined, Ameer Abdullah is positioned to be a viable sleeper option, particularly over rookie Dylan Laube. Abdullah has showcased his reliability, catching all six of his targets for 30 yards and a touchdown in recent weeks. Although the Denver Broncos present a formidable challenge with their sixth-ranked run defense, Abdullah's expertise in the passing game may help him put up points within point-per-reception leagues, especially if the Raiders find themselves needing to rely on the air attack.
Wide receiver Joshua Palmer of the Los Angeles Chargers could also emerge as a sleeper pick, despite a recent dip in production. Palmer's target volume has diminished, catching only three of six targets for 59 yards in the past two games. Nevertheless, he faces a favorable matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, who yield the most fantasy points to wide receivers. Averaging 18.3 yards per catch, Palmer has the potential to deliver big plays even with limited targets, particularly as quarterback Justin Herbert may be forced to increase his passing attempts given the Ravens' strong run defense. Palmer's prospects could shift back into the spotlight if he capitalizes on his opportunities during this advantageous matchup.
As the season progresses, it is important to be mindful of player rapport. Tommy DeVito in particular has established a connection with Darius Slayton, which could be pivotal as the Giants approach their Week 12 contest against the Buccaneers. Slayton has consistently performed alongside DeVito, boasting a team-leading average of 14.7 yards per catch this season. Although rookie wideout Malik Nabers is expected to receive attention, Slayton's familiarity with DeVito may lead to significant yardage, particularly against the Buccaneers' struggling pass defense. With the recent bye week allowing Slayton to recover, barring his continued presence in concussion protocol, he could be primed for a critical role in the game.
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has seen a shift in his playing style as injuries have limited his running ability. Since suffering a rib injury in Week 7, he has not surpassed eight rushing attempts in a game. This change has allowed for increased opportunities for his receivers, such as Noah Brown, who has emerged as a solid option in fantasy lineups. Brown has consistently produced at least three catches in seven of nine games, and if Daniels continues to focus on passing, he could further amplify his targets. Facing the Dallas Cowboys' 19th-ranked pass defense, Brown's prospects for scoring and accruing yards could be promising.
For the Carolina Panthers, a potential return from injury for Adam Thielen adds complexity to their strategic approach against the Kansas City Chiefs. While Thielen's presence is notable, the focus may shift to tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders, who has exhibited a strong trajectory in the passing game with regular target volume. The Chiefs have struggled to defend against tight ends, making Sanders a potential matchup nightmare as he takes advantage of the middle of the field. As the Panthers may face a negative game script, an increased aerial focus could elevate Sanders' fantasy value significantly.
Finally, the potential absence of Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson due to a concussion opens the door for Luke Schoonmaker to step into a key role. Schoonmaker has shown promise, catching six of ten targets for 56 yards in his last appearance, and could become a top-10 fantasy option among tight ends if target volume holds. The Washington Commanders' defense has had difficulty containing tight ends recently, increasing Schoonmaker's chances to deliver a strong performance in Week 12 if he receives ample targets.
