With Week 18 of the NFL season already here, the final possible week for fantasy football championships is approaching. There are plenty of obstacles to overcome this week with injuries and starters resting. The Start and Sit list contains borderline players for each roster to help you make the right decisions ahead of your matchup. This season I have hit on 70.1% of our start and sit picks. Below are my favorite start/sits for Week 18.
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Quarterbacks to Start
Sam Darnold MIN
Sam Darnold is in the perfect position to deliver a massive performance in Week 18 as he leads the Vikings in a critical game against Detroit. With the NFC North title and the top playoff seed at stake, Darnold has been in stellar form, scoring at least 23.6 fantasy points in six of his last seven games. Although his previous meeting with the Lions resulted in a modest 18.3 points, Detroit’s defense has since been hampered by injuries. Opposing quarterbacks have exploited this weakness, with three consecutive signal-callers scoring over 26.8 points. Darnold is one of the safest options at quarterback this week making him a must start.
Jared Goff DET
Jared Goff has been elite heading into Week 18, delivering at least 22 points in each of his last four games. He’s demonstrated elite accuracy and decision-making, throwing 14 touchdowns to just one interception during this stretch. Facing a Vikings defense that has allowed limited points to quarterbacks recently might seem challenging, but Goff scored 18.8 points against them earlier this season. With the NFC North title and No. 1 seed on the line, Goff is poised for a strong outing in what should be a high-scoring game. Expect Goff and Darnold to both be in for big games this week.
Bo Nix DEN
Bo Nix enters as one of the hottest fantasy quarterbacks having scored 21 points in back-to-back weeks and over 19 points in four of his last six games. His ability to contribute both through the air and on the ground makes him a dynamic fantasy asset, especially in a must-win game for the Broncos. Kansas City, having already locked up the No. 1 seed in the AFC, is expected to rest key players, creating a favorable matchup for Nix. Expect Nix to capitalize on this opportunity and reward fantasy managers with another strong showing.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Aaron Rodgers NYJ
Aaron Rodgers has had a disappointing season by his standards, with inconsistent production and only two games over 20 fantasy points since Week 9. His most recent outing was particularly poor, including a dismal 0.5-point performance against Buffalo in Week 17. Although Rodgers faces Miami in Week 18, the Dolphins have been one of the league’s best against quarterbacks, allowing the fewest fantasy points at the position over the last eight weeks. While Rodgers may still reach the milestone of 500 career touchdown passes, his overall fantasy value remains low. Managers should avoid starting him in such a tough matchup, as his upside is severely limited.
Jordan Love GB
Jordan Love’s fantasy production has been underwhelming, with four games of 15 or fewer points in his last six outings. His role in the Packers’ offense has diminished with the rise of Josh Jacobs, reducing his pass attempts and overall opportunities. Facing the Bears in Week 18 could present a decent matchup on paper, but Love’s failed to take advantage of favorable situations in recent weeks. The inconsistent volume and a lack of production are some main reasons to keep Love out of your starting lineup this week despite a favorable matchup against the Bears.
C.J. Stroud HOU
C.J. Stroud’s Week 18 fantasy outlook is grim despite a plus matchup against the Titans. Stroud has struggled to consistently produce, with only one game over 20 fantasy points since Week 6. His previous matchup against Tennessee in Week 12 resulted in 19.7 points and could potentially be in for fewer snaps if the Texans decide to rest their starters this week. Fantasy managers should prioritize quarterbacks playing a full game with greater upside. With the Texans locked into the No. 4 seed, Stroud is best left on the bench in Week 18.
Running backs to Start
J.K. Dobbins LAC
J.K. Dobbins enters Week 18 with plenty of upside as he faces the Raiders in a game with multiple potential scenarios. Dobbins is one of those players with incentives on the line as he needs 58 rushing yards to secure a $150,000 bonus. In Week 17, he returned from injury to deliver 15.3 PPR points, showing he’s capable of matching his production earlier on in the season. The Raiders have struggled against the run this season, allowing running backs to post 14.5 or more PPR points 11 times, including 22.9 points from Dobbins in Week 1. His mix of personal incentives, team stakes, and a favorable matchup makes him a strong RB1 candidate this week.
Rico Dowdle DAL
Rico Dowdle has been on fire in recent weeks, amassing four 100-yard rushing games in his last five outings. His Week 17 performance against Philadelphia included 23 carries for 104 yards, though a fumble limited his PPR total to 9.8 points. Facing Washington in Week 18 provides another solid opportunity, as the Commanders have given up at least 17 PPR points to a running back in their last three games. Dowdle has been efficient and explosive, ranking in the top 20 in explosive run rate and sixth in yards after contact per attempt since Week 12. With the Cowboys likely to rely on him heavily once again, Dowdle is a reliable RB2 option. Expect him to thrive against a Washington defense that remains vulnerable against rushing attacks.
Ray Davis BUF
Ray Davis has a chance to shine in Week 18 as Buffalo’s likely workhorse against the Patriots. With James Cook expected to play sparingly or sit altogether, Davis could lead the backfield in touches. He previously showcased his potential in Week 6 against the Jets, scoring 18.2 PPR points with 153 total yards on 23 touches. New England’s run defense has struggled recently, allowing the seventh-most rushing yards per game and has allowed five straight running backs to top at least 15.3 points. While Ty Johnson could see some involvement, Davis’s efficiency and missed tackle rate (27%) position him as a strong flex play with RB1/2 upside.
Running backs to Sit
D’Andre Swift CHI
D’Andre Swift’s inconsistency makes him a risky option heading into Week 18 against the Packers. He has scored fewer than 9.9 PPR points in five of his last six games, failing to surpass 75 scrimmage yards in most of those contests. The Packers still have playoff seeding to play for this week, while the Bears have not showed signs of life in the last few weeks. Green Bay’s defense has been effective at limiting opposing running backs, further reducing Swift’s ceiling. Although Swift has a hefty workload, his recent performances don’t inspire confidence. Fantasy managers should consider other options, as Swift is a low-end flex at best this week.
Breece Hall NYJ
Breece Hall’s recent struggles continue to make him a tough player to trust in Week 18. Limited to just 11 touches and 6.3 PPR points in a blowout loss to Buffalo last week, Hall’s opportunities have been inconsistent. The Jets have nothing to play for, and their opponent, the Dolphins, has been stout against the run. Miami has allowed just 3.9 yards per carry and only three rushing touchdowns in their last eight games, making Hall’s path to fantasy success difficult. His lack of recent production and the challenging matchup combine to make him a risky option. Fantasy managers should avoid starting Hall unless necessary.
Rhamondre Stevenson NE
Rhamondre Stevenson’s role in the Patriots’ backfield is increasingly uncertain, making him a risky option in Week 18. After fumbling in Week 16, Stevenson saw just two carries for 1 yard in Week 17, while Antonio Gibson took over with 12 carries for 63 yards. Even with the Bills likely to rest their starters, the unpredictability of New England’s backfield limits Stevenson’s value. The Patriots’ offense hasn’t inspired much confidence, and it’s unclear if Stevenson will return to his usual workload. Managers should seek more reliable options for their lineups, as Stevenson carries significant risk. Avoid the Patriots’ backfield altogether if possible.
Wide Receivers to Start
George Pickens PIT
George Pickens is back on the field after a hamstring injury sidelined him for Weeks 14-16, posting three catches for 50 yards in Week 17 against Kansas City. Before his injury, he shined in the Week 13 matchup with Cincinnati, recording 74 yards and a touchdown. Pickens has shown solid chemistry with Russell Wilson, scoring at least 16.4 PPR points in four of their seven games together. The Bengals’ defense has been vulnerable to wide receivers recently, allowing multiple strong performances. With Pittsburgh aiming to build momentum heading into the playoffs, Pickens should see plenty of targets making him a must-start.
Adam Thielen CAR
Adam Thielen has been on a tear lately, scoring at least 15.3 PPR points in four of his last five games, including a massive 28-point outing in Week 17. He draws a favorable matchup against the Falcons, who rank near the top in fantasy points allowed to wide receivers. Thielen’s recent performances have been fueled by his consistent involvement as the team’s top receiver since returning from injury. Atlanta’s struggles in the secondary and Thielen’s ability to exploit them make him a high-upside play. Despite missing the first matchup with Atlanta earlier this season, Thielen is poised for another big game.
Jalen McMillan TB
Jalen McMillan is on fire, scoring six touchdowns over his last four games and consistently delivering double-digit PPR points. With the Buccaneers playing for the NFC South title, McMillan will remain a key target for their passing attack. The Saints have struggled against wide receivers, giving up seven touchdowns to the position in their last five games. While Mike Evans will undoubtedly dominate the headlines, McMillan’s role as a secondary weapon has made him a fantasy gem. His recent production and the favorable matchup make him a reliable WR2 for Week 18. Start him with confidence in all formats.
Wide Receivers to Sit
Marvin Harrison Jr. ARI
Marvin Harrison Jr. broke out of a slump in Week 17 with 15.6 points, but his Week 18 matchup against the 49ers is far less appealing. San Francisco’s defense has been one of the best against perimeter receivers, limiting production consistently since Week 10. Harrison Jr. hasn’t lived up to preseason expectations, ranking just WR40 in fantasy points per game. His target share and deep-threat opportunities haven’t translated into reliable production. With the Cardinals’ passing game struggling and the 49ers’ defense allowing the fourth-fewest receiving yards per game, Harrison Jr. is a risky start. Bench him if you have other viable options.
DK Metcalf SEA
DK Metcalf has struggled mightily down the stretch, scoring under 10.6 PPR points in five of his last six games. The Seahawks are out of playoff contention and now face a Rams team that is resting some of their starters. His reduced target share and scoring opportunities are concerning, as is Seattle’s overall offensive inconsistency. Last week we saw Metcalf unable to capitalize against a favorable matchup due to a lack of volume and I expect that to be the case again this week. Fantasy managers should be cautious about relying on Metcalf in Week 18. He’s better left on the bench in most leagues.
Jerry Jeudy CLE
Jerry Jeudy had a surprising 12-catch performance in Week 17, but a tough matchup with the Ravens makes him a sit for Week 18. Baltimore’s defense has been dominant against the pass as of late, and they’ll be motivated with the AFC North title on the line. Jeudy’s high target volume could be negated by Baltimore’s ability to limit big plays and scoring opportunities. The Browns’ quarterback situation also remains a concern, adding to Jeudy’s risk. While the potential for targets is there, the ceiling is too low to trust him in most formats. Consider other options for your lineup this week.
Tight Ends to Start
Tucker Kraft GB
Tucker Kraft hasn’t posted significant fantasy numbers recently, failing to exceed 9.5 points or see more than four targets in his last three games. However, he has a prime opportunity to rebound against a Bears defense that has been generous to tight ends. Since Week 10, Chicago has allowed at least 9.4 fantasy points to the position in six games, including four performances of 14.3 points or more. This favorable matchup puts Kraft on the radar as a sleeper tight end for Week 18. While his recent usage has been low, the matchup alone makes him worth a look for fantasy managers in need. Consider Kraft a solid streaming option this week.
Jonnu Smith MIA
Jonnu Smith continues to provide steady production, scoring at least 11.6 PPR points in seven consecutive games. His consistency has been fueled by frequent red-zone involvement, with seven touchdowns this season. Smith faces a Jets defense that has struggled to contain tight ends, allowing four to score at least 8.1 PPR points in their past five games. Even with uncertainty at quarterback for the Dolphins, Smith’s role remains secure, making him a reliable TE1 option. As Miami pushes for a playoff spot, expect Smith to maintain his strong form. He’s a TE1 for Week 18.
Pat Freiermuth PIT
Pat Freiermuth has been on a roll, scoring at least 11 PPR points in four of his last five games, including three touchdowns during that span. His Week 13 performance against the Bengals was a season-best, with six catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. Cincinnati’s defense is the most favorable for tight ends, allowing the most fantasy points and third-most receiving yards to the position. The combination of increased volume and matchup makes him a locked-in TE1 for Week 18. Start Freiermuth with confidence in all leagues.
Tight Ends to Sit
Kyle Pitts ATL
Kyle Pitts had a rare strong outing in Week 17, scoring 14.4 points, but it was his first double-digit performance since Week 8. His volume has been a major issue, as he’s seen more than four targets in just three of his last eight games. The Panthers have been tough on tight ends, allowing just 37.3 receiving yards per game to the position since Week 14. Pitts’ lack of consistent involvement and red-zone opportunities makes him difficult to trust despite a decent matchup. While last week’s performance was encouraging, chasing those points might backfire. Bench Pitts unless you’re desperate for a tight end.
Jake Ferguson DAL
Jake Ferguson has struggled recently, scoring 6.2 PPR points or fewer in three of his last four games. He’s yet to score a touchdown this season, and his Week 17 performance without CeeDee Lamb was disappointing, with just three catches for 18 yards. Facing Washington in Week 18, Ferguson’s outlook doesn’t improve, as the Commanders have been solid against tight ends. His lack of production and inconsistent involvement make him a risky start in most formats. With Dallas’ offense turning to Trey Lance and Ferguson’s role uncertain, he’s better left on the bench this week. Look elsewhere for your tight-end needs.
Hunter Henry NE
Hunter Henry enters Week 18 as a questionable fantasy option after playing a season-low 57% of snaps in Week 17. Despite seeing decent volume in recent weeks, his production has been inconsistent, highlighted by a goose egg last game. The Patriots’ matchup against Buffalo offers little upside, especially in a meaningless game for New England. Henry has been a reliable target for Drake Maye at times, but his likely reduced workload and recent foot injury might even keep him out of action altogether. With no significant stakes for the team, his fantasy value takes a hit. Avoid Henry in Week 18 unless you have no other options.
DEF to Start
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers’ defense dominated in Week 17, recording five sacks and allowing just 204 yards in a 48-14 win over the Panthers. They face the Saints in Week 18, likely led by rookie QB Spencer Rattler, who has thrown five interceptions and taken 20 sacks in six games. Tampa Bay needs a win to secure the NFC South and should be highly motivated, making their defense a strong streaming option. The Saints’ offensive struggles have been well-documented, making this matchup one of the most favorable for any fantasy defense this week.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have everything to play for in Week 18, as a win secures them the AFC North title. Their defense faces a Browns team that has struggled mightily, averaging just 7.5 points per game and committing 14 turnovers since Week 14. Bailey Zappe is now the fourth quarterback to suit up for the Browns this season and now has the current spread at -20 for the Ravens. For fantasy managers, this unit is a no-brainer start in what promises to be a one-sided affair.
Green Bay Packers
Green Bay enters Week 18 with a chance to improve their playoff seeding, provided they win and Washington loses. They face a Bears offense that has been generous to opposing defenses, allowing 8.4 fantasy points per game. While there’s a risk of the Packers pulling their starters if Washington takes control of its game, Green Bay’s defense should still make the most of their time on the field. The Bears’ struggles give me enough confidence in the Packers dominating this matchup.
DEF to Sit
Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City’s defense is usually reliable, but this week comes with significant risks. The Chiefs are treating their matchup with Denver as a bye week, resting key starters. Meanwhile, the Broncos are in a must-win situation, making them highly motivated to perform. With Denver projected to score 26.5 points, this matchup is far from favorable for the Chiefs’ defense. Fantasy managers should avoid relying on Kansas City this week, as the game’s circumstances diminish their usual upside.
Minnesota Vikings
A shootout is brewing in Detroit, where the Vikings take on the Lions in a game with a massive 56.5-point over/under. While Minnesota’s defense ranks first in EPA per play, their struggles in the secondary make them vulnerable to Detroit’s high-powered passing attack. The Lions rank as the third-toughest matchup for defenses, allowing just 2.7 points per game to opposing DSTs. With elite offenses on both sides, the Vikings’ defense is a risky play. Fantasy managers would be wise to bench them in favor of a safer option.
Kickers to Start
Jason Sanders MIA
Jason Sanders has been a fantasy stud lately, racking up 55 points over his last four games and hitting double digits in six of his previous eight outings. His Week 18 matchup against the Jets is another favorable one, as New York has allowed the second-most points to kickers this season. The Dolphins will be fighting for their playoff lives with Tyler Huntley, which bodes well for Sanders’ scoring chances.
Wil Lutz DEN
Wil Lutz has been nothing short of perfect over the last six weeks, converting every field goal and extra-point attempt. His 9.5 fantasy points per game during this stretch highlight his reliability, and Week 18 offers another strong opportunity. With the Chiefs expected to rest their starters, Denver’s offense should have plenty of chances to move the ball and put Lutz in scoring range.
Kickers to Sit
Harrison Butker KC
Harrison Butker’s recent performances have been a mixed bag, and Week 18 doesn’t promise much improvement. The Chiefs are expected to bench starters, limiting Butker’s scoring opportunities in what is essentially a meaningless game for Kansas City. On the other side, Denver’s defense has been stingy against kickers, allowing just 8.1 points per game. With the Chiefs unlikely to lean heavily on their offense, Butker’s ceiling is low this week.
Justin Tucker BAL
While Justin Tucker has regained some form recently, Week 18 might not offer much for his fantasy value. The Ravens are expected to dominate the Browns, which could result in more extra points than field goal attempts. Tucker managed just six points the last time these teams met, and Cleveland’s defense hasn’t been kind to kickers. Despite his talent, Tucker is a risky play this week.
For a breakdown of each Start / Sit player this week, check out this YouTube video
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