As the fantasy football playoffs approach, coaches and managers are gearing up for positive developments in their rosters. Notably, several key players are in line for returns, including Chris Godwin, who is set to rejoin the action this week. Meanwhile, Bucky Irving and Trey Benson are making progress, with Joe Burrow participating fully in practice, suggesting he might also make a comeback soon.
While Godwin’s return will certainly provide a much-needed boost, fantasy managers will still need to navigate bye weeks and injuries this week. Here are 11 sleepers and streamers that could enhance your lineup.
Starting with quarterbacks, Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers is coming off a notable performance, where he achieved a career-high of 448 passing yards. He faces the San Francisco 49ers, who allow the tenth most points to quarterbacks. Playing as seven-point underdogs, the Panthers may rely on Young to throw more, especially in games where he has attempted 40 or more passes, resulting in impressive fantasy scores.
Jameis Winston of the New York Giants is back on the sleeper radar after learning that Jaxson Dart will sit out again this week. Although he didn’t have a standout performance in his last outing, this week might present more opportunities against the Detroit Lions, who are favored by 11.5 points. With the Giants likely needing to throw often to keep pace, Winston could find his rhythm, particularly in the latter stages of the game.
For running backs, Bam Knight of the Arizona Cardinals should see a significant workload with Trey Benson still sidelined. With Emari Demercado out, Knight is expected to lead in rushing attempts. Tyler Allgeier from the Atlanta Falcons has been inconsistent, but as the team faces the Saints, he could emerge as a solid streaming option yet again, especially in a competitive game.
Bhayshul Tuten from the Jacksonville Jaguars had a breakout performance with 15 carries for 74 yards and a touchdown before an ankle injury curtailed his day. Assuming he is active, he will face a favorable matchup against a Cardinals defense that has struggled against running backs.
Among wide receivers, Kayshon Boutte of the New England Patriots returns as a deep threat against the Cincinnati Bengals, who hold the league’s worst pass defense. Assuming the game stays competitive, Boutte could capitalize on a big play opportunity.
Andrei Iosivas of the Cincinnati Bengals steps into the WR2 role in light of Ja’Marr Chase’s suspension. With Tee Higgins and Chase Brown also in the mix, Iosivas could take advantage of the Patriots’ somewhat generous defensive stats against receivers.
Luther Burden III from the Chicago Bears has taken on a more prominent role recently and may excel against the Steelers, who are among the league’s weakest defenses against the pass.
For tight ends, Brock Wright of the Detroit Lions will again start with Sam LaPorta on IR. After seeing seven targets last week, he’s poised for potential success against the Giants. Harold Fannin Jr. of the Cleveland Browns appears to have an opportunity, though with a less certain quarterback situation under Shedeur Sanders, his performance remains to be seen.
Finally, in defense, the Las Vegas Raiders are in an advantageous position against the Browns and a rookie quarterback, which could lead to a strong defensive outing.
These streaming options could make a significant difference as teams prepare for the playoffs, offering hope for those facing challenges due to injuries or bye weeks. Fantasy managers should stay sharp and consider incorporating these players into their lineups as Week 12 unfolds.