Week 14 Fantasy Football: Key Players to Watch and Must-Avoid Picks
Week 14 Fantasy Football: Key Players to Watch and Must-Avoid Picks
As we approach the end of the regular fantasy football season, Week 14 marks a crucial turning point for many teams. Some managers have already secured playoff spots, while others are fighting to either close out the season on a high note or spoil someone else’s chances. For those in the scramble, the message is clear: win this week or your season is over.
To help you navigate this pivotal week, we at B/R provide essential position-by-position rankings, breakout candidates, and critical players to avoid as the fantasy postseason approaches.
Quarterback Rankings
The quarterback landscape is currently chaotic. If you’re lucky enough to have Buffalo's Josh Allen, you’re set. Meanwhile, fantasy managers who utilized Joe Burrow during his absence are relieved to have him back in action. However, other players like Washington's Jayden Daniels remain sidelined with injuries, and Lamar Jackson is not performing at his peak.
Players to Watch
- Daniel Jones, Indianapolis Colts (vs. JAX) - Priced at $6,200 on DraftKings, Jones faces a Jaguars defense that struggles against the pass.
- Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys (at DET) - At $6,300, Prescott has been on fire, making him a top play in a favorable matchup.
Players to Avoid
- Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals (at BUF) - Burrow faces a tough Bills defense that restricts fantasy scoring.
- Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears (at GB) - Coming off a lackluster performance, he faces a stiff Packers defense.
Running Back Rankings
For running backs, the spotlight shines on Jonathan Taylor, who has fluctuated in performance recently. Once a dominant force, he is now showing signs of vulnerability, making fantasy managers anxious.
Players to Watch
- James Cook III, Buffalo Bills (vs. CIN) - At $7,800, Cook is primed to shine against the Bengals' leaky rush defense.
- Quinshon Judkins, Cleveland Browns (vs. TEN) - Listed at $6,400, look for Judkins to capitalize on the Titans' defensive weaknesses.
Players to Avoid
- Ashton Jeanty, Las Vegas Raiders (vs. DEN) - Facing a stout Broncos defense, this could be a tough outing.
- Javonte Williams, Dallas Cowboys (at DET) - Despite solid stats, the Lions' defense is tough against running backs.
Wide Receiver Rankings
In the wide receiver realm, Justin Jefferson's season has taken a downturn. No longer the early-round pick’s surety, he is now battling real inconsistency.
Players to Watch
- Zay Flowers, Baltimore Ravens (vs. PIT) - At $6,100, Flowers aims to bounce back against a vulnerable Steelers secondary.
- Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings (vs. WAS) - Despite struggles, he has potential to shine against a weak Commanders' defense.
Players to Avoid
- Deebo Samuel, Washington Commanders (at MIN) - Tough matchup against the Vikings may hinder his production.
- DeVonta Smith, Philadelphia Eagles (at LAC) - Likely to struggle against a Chargers defense that limits receiver scoring.
Tight End Rankings
The tight end position has been dominated by Trey McBride, who is paving his path to greatness this season.
Players to Watch
- Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens (vs. PIT) - At $4,100, Andrews should find the end zone against a struggling Steelers defense.
- Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons (vs. SEA) - Priced at $4,200, he is worth considering after a solid last outing.
Players to Avoid
- Jake Ferguson, Dallas Cowboys (at DET) - Facing a tough Lions defense, he may not meet expectations.
- Orande Gadsden II, Los Angeles Chargers (vs. PHI) - Struggling to find form in a poor matchup.
Conclusion
As teams head into Week 14, the focus is on maximizing your lineup, especially with key players on bye. Whether battling for a playoff spot or defending a top seed, this week is critical. Take calculated risks and swing for the fences—fortune favors the brave!
