As the fantasy playoff push heats up in Week 12 of the 2025 fantasy football season, managers face increased pressure from bye weeks and injuries. Fortunately, only four teams are on a bye this week: the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, Miami Dolphins, and Washington Commanders. This leaves plenty of opportunities for strategic moves in lineups.
Week 12 kicked off with an exciting “Thursday Night Football” matchup between the Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans, featuring numerous players with significant fantasy potential. As managers prepare for the upcoming games on Sunday and Monday, they are faced with tough decisions and critical start-sit choices.
In the realm of quarterbacks, Jacoby Brissett of the Arizona Cardinals has emerged as a strong start against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Since taking over for Kyler Murray, Brissett has provided consistent performances, throwing for at least 258 yards and two touchdowns in each game since Week 6. The Jaguars have struggled against quarterbacks, making Brissett a favorable option.
Likewise, Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions is poised for a bounce-back game against the New York Giants. Coming off a dismal performance against the Eagles, Goff is returning to the familiar confines of Ford Field, where he can exploit a Giants defense that has been generous to quarterbacks this season.
Another noteworthy start is Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers, who appears ready to deliver against the Carolina Panthers after a solid outing last week. Despite a challenging matchup, purdy’s consistency makes him a viable option for fantasy managers.
On the other hand, there are quarterbacks to avoid. Dak Prescott, despite a strong game against the Raiders, faces a daunting Philadelphia Eagles defense that has been tough on opposing quarterbacks. Similarly, Daniel Jones of the Indianapolis Colts and Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are unlikely to provide significant value against their respective matchups this week.
As for running backs, Travis Etienne of the Jacksonville Jaguars is on a hot streak, recently achieving his first multi-touchdown game. Facing a Cardinals defense that has struggled against running backs, Etienne could continue his strong performance this week. David Montgomery of the Detroit Lions has the opportunity to bounce back against the Giants, who have allowed a steady stream of touchdowns to opposing running backs.
Seattle’s Kenneth Gainwell steps into this week’s action against the Tennessee Titans, who have been inconsistent against running backs lately.
Wide receivers and tight ends are also in focus this week, with talents like Carolina’s Tetairoa McMillan and New Orleans’ Chris Olave showcasing break-out potential against favorable matchups. Tight ends like Hunter Henry from the New England Patriots could be valuable against a Bengals defense that has struggled against the position.
Ultimately, with crucial matchups ahead, fantasy managers need to be vigilant and strategic, navigating through the complexities presented by injuries and bye weeks to secure their spot in the playoffs. The advice and insights provided this week can prove essential for those making critical roster decisions.