With the fantasy football playoffs approaching, managers face crucial decisions as four teams take their bye week, sidelining several key players. This week’s lineup advice aims to help navigate these challenges by spotlighting potential starters who might be available for those on the bubble.
Among running backs, Bucky Irving is highlighted for his return from injury and increased workload, which could translate into more points in the coming weeks. Travis Etienne Jr. is expected to be a central part of Jacksonville’s strategy against Indianapolis, while D’Andre Swift’s recent performance suggests he could continue to produce despite facing a tougher defense.
Blake Corum emerges as a notable waiver option due to his expanded role in Los Angeles’ backfield after the team’s bye week and recent success against Carolina. For Atlanta Falcons fans, Tyler Allgeier remains relevant as he leads the team in touchdowns with eight and may find opportunities near the goal line against Seattle.
In wide receiver recommendations, Jaylen Waddle stands out despite New York Jets’ strong defensive showing last week. Emeka Egbuka’s consistent target share keeps him in play for Tampa Bay, while Christian Watson has solidified his role as Green Bay’s primary receiver with strong performances over recent weeks.
Isaac Teslaa could benefit from an increased role if Detroit’s Amon-Ra St. Brown is unable to play Thursday night. The Falcons’ Drake London is considered “day to day” according to head coach Raheem Morris; if healthy, he could see significant action against Seattle.
At tight end, Mark Andrews remains a high-upside but volatile option for Baltimore. Dallas Goedert has favorable matchups ahead as Philadelphia faces defenses that have struggled against tight ends recently. Darren Waller’s impact since joining Miami has been immediate, especially in red zone situations.
Brenton Strange offers waiver appeal due to Indianapolis’ vulnerability against tight ends this season. For Atlanta, Kyle Pitts comes off his best game of the year and faces a Seattle defense that allows considerable production at his position—especially important if Drake London is absent again.
Quarterback options include Joe Burrow at Buffalo and Jordan Love versus Chicago—both poised for productive outings based on recent form and opponent tendencies. Jared Goff continues his rebound with another favorable matchup against Dallas after two strong showings post-Eagles game.
Tyrod Taylor presents an intriguing waiver start following a top-10 finish last week and an upcoming game against Miami’s defense. Kirk Cousins hasn’t posted standout fantasy numbers recently but maintains steady real-life performance; if Atlanta’s contest with Seattle becomes high-scoring, he could rank among the top quarterbacks this week.
“Instead of getting the ‘week to week’ label from head coach Raheem Morris, as had been the case for two weeks, London was deemed ‘day to day.’ If he’s back, he could see a lot of work in a potential shootout,” one report notes regarding Drake London’s status.
Despite challenging circumstances with multiple teams on bye and uncertain injury reports, strategic roster moves remain possible heading into Week 14.
