This week in fantasy football brings us the unique challenge of navigating Week 18, a time when many teams have already secured playoff spots or are completely out of contention. For fantasy managers, this means dealing with benched starters, unpredictable rotations, and a smorgasbord of bench players and rookies seeing extended action. It's a week where preparation, flexibility, and a little creativity can make all the difference.

For those of us who have played fantasy football long enough, Peyton Manning's infamous late-season benchings remain etched in our memories. The Colts' tendency to rest their superstar quarterback in meaningless late-season games burned many managers during fantasy championship week. The 2009 season, when Manning was benched during an undefeated run, stands out as a particularly painful example. I’ve also lost a final where the Cardinals benched Kurt Warner early in the game against the Patriots. He only threw for 30 yards and I lost by three. I still remember it.

Fast forward to today, and Week 18 presents a similar minefield. Teams like the Chiefs, Eagles, and Bills have either clinched their playoff spots or are on the cusp, leading to reduced workloads or outright benchings for key players. It’s a reality we have to embrace.

Confirmed and Likely Absences

Players confirmed out or almost certain to be limited:

Out: Saquon Barkley, Patrick Mahomes,

Brock Purdy, all Rams starters

Likely Limited: Josh Allen, Xavier Worthy, Travis Kelce,

James Cook, A.J. Brown,

DeVonta Smith, Jalen Hurts

For those in deep leagues, or facing depleted options, unconventional names like Aaron Rodgers or Joshua Dobbs could be on your radar. While this may seem absurd under normal circumstances, the context of Week 18 makes these choices more than reasonable.

Must Start, Matchup Upgrades, and Grounds for Concern

This week, these categories will feature names we wouldn’t usually consider but are suddenly thrust into fantasy relevance due to opportunity and matchups.. 

These Rankings Are Tailored for a 10-Person PPR League

Specific rosters, league size, and weekly matchups all play a role in lineup decisions. For example, in a 6-person PPR league, a player like J.K. Dobbins might not be a must-start. In a 14-person superflex league, you better believe I’m starting Cooper Rush every week.

Label Definitions:

Must Starts: You should absolutely start these players.

Matchup Upgrade: Players recommended for starting but not over "must starts." These are borderline starters with favorable matchups, positive game scripts, or recent strong performances.

Grounds for Concern: Players with negative matchups, poor game scripts, or recent struggles. A Must Start player can be in this category.

Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens

Must Start:

Browns: Jerry Jeudy, David Njoku (if playing)
Ravens: Lamar Jackson, Zay Flowers, 

Derrick Henry, Mark Andrews

Does this game matter? Yes, the Ravens can clinch the division and the 3 seed with a win, so expect them to go all out this week. 

Matchup Upgrade

Rashod Bateman (WR, Ravens): A boom/bust option who boomed against the Giants but has busted the past couple of weeks. Look for a couple of deep shots against a Browns team that gives up the 6th most points to WRs despite allowing only 17.4 targets per game—5th fewest in the league. Compare that to the 20+ targets averaged by four of the top five teams. They’re getting beat more often than other teams. If the Ravens want to jump on them early, like they did against the Giants, and put the game to bed by halftime, Bateman could have 2-3 big plays.

Grounds for Concern

Browns Running Backs: Jerome Ford has had a nice season when Nick Chubb has been sidelined. However, he sustained an ankle injury after just 6 carries. D’Onta Foreman and Pierre Strong Jr. took over the backfield, with Foreman logging 13 carries and 2 targets, while Strong had 5 carries and 6 targets.

If Ford plays this week, first check the injury report to see if he was limited or full-go. Either way, he’s no more than a flex play. The Baltimore defense ranks 8th against RBs and allows only 3.5 yards per carry—the best in the league. They do give up the 4th most receiving yards to RBs, so if Ford misses the game and you’re in a desperate spot, Pierre Strong Jr. would be the best bet for a flex-worthy game. I’d avoid this entire situation if possible.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Must Start

Bengals: Joe Burrow, Chase Brown (if playing),

Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins

Steelers: Jaylen Warren, George Pickens

Does this game matter?

Yes! Pittsburgh can still win the division with a win and a Ravens loss. Even if the Ravens win, the Steelers would clinch the 5th seed with a win. The Bengals need to win and get some help to make the playoffs. Both teams should be ready to go all-out on Sunday.

Matchup Upgrade

Russell Wilson (QB, Steelers): The Bengals defense has played better as of late, albeit against weaker QBs. The last time these two teams met, Russell Wilson lit them up with 414 passing yards and 3 TDs in a wild 44-38 victory in Week 13. Since then, he hasn’t gone over 217 passing yards, but this is a great matchup. The Bengals rank 5th worst against QBs, and with so many top QBs sitting this week, Russ makes for a strong streaming option if you’re missing your starter.

Grounds for Concern

Mike Gesicki (TE, Bengals): Before last Sunday’s surprising 18.6-point performance, Gesicki had fewer than 6 targets in his previous five games. He has struggled to produce when both he and Tee Higgins are in the lineup, and I don’t anticipate a big game from him this week. He did manage 10.3 points the last time these teams faced off, but with so much on the line, I expect a much slower-paced game—something in the 27-24 range rather than the 44-38 shootout from Week 13.

New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Must Start

Giants: Tyrone Tracy Jr, Malik Nabers
Eagles: None

Does this game matter?

No! The Eagles have already clinched the #2 seed and are resting their starters. The Giants, while out of playoff contention, proved last week that they are more than willing to fight it out despite having little to play for.

Matchup Upgrade

Kenneth Gainwell (RB, Eagles): Starting him would be a risky play, but it’s worth noting that the last time he faced the Giants, he had 13 carries for 56 yards. Without Saquon Barkley this week, I’m expecting Gainwell to see 20+ touches against a Giants defense that has given up the 4th most fantasy points to RBs this season.

Grounds for Concern

Drew Lock (QB, Giants): Last week’s performance was wild and gave Malik Nabers managers a much-needed boost. However, this week’s matchup is far less favorable. While the Eagles will likely rest many of their starters, I trust their backups more than I trust the Giants’ starters. The Eagles allow only 14.9 fantasy points per game to QBs, so while Lock’s performance last week was impressive, it’s best to leave him on the bench for this one. 

Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers

Must Start

Bears: D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen
Packers: Josh Jacobs

Does this game matter?

Yes! The Packers will be gunning for a win, as they can secure the sixth seed and face either the Rams or Buccaneers, or the seventh seed and face the Eagles in the playoffs.

Matchup Upgrade

D’Andre Swift (RB, Bears): Swift’s performance over the last month has been lackluster, but there’s reason for hope. The Packers’ defense is mid-pack against running backs and has given up the fourth-most receptions and the third-most yards to RBs. The Bears’ offense was abysmal last week, especially Caleb Williams, who held onto the ball for too long and took seven sacks.

Swift, on the other hand, had a solid game—12 rushes for 53 yards and 4 catches for 28 yards, adding up to 12.1 points. Last game against the Packers, Swift found the end zone. With a focus on quick passing and dump-offs to Swift to help alleviate pressure from Williams, I expect a better performance. However, this is assuming the Bears have a competent organization moving forward.

Grounds for Concern

All Packers Receivers: The unpredictability of which Packers receiver will shine from week to week makes this group nearly impossible to read. I would rank them as follows: Reed, Doubs, Watson (when healthy), and Wicks. It’s tough to trust any of them with consistency.

Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons

Must Start

Panthers: Adam Thielen
Falcons: Bijan Robinson, Drake London

Does this game matter?

Yes! The Falcons need a win and a Buccaneers lose to win the division and secure a playoff spot.

Matchup Upgrade

Kyle Pitts (TE, Falcons): The Panthers have allowed the second-most points to the tight end position this year, including the most touchdowns. Michael Penix Jr. was forced to make key throws last game, unlike his first start against the Giants, and Pitts benefited with 5 targets (tied for second-most on the team). He turned those into 4 catches for 44 yards and a touchdown.

Pitts is TE12 on the year, which is slightly below where he was drafted, but compared to previous seasons, he’s only been a minor disappointment. Stripping away the name value, he’s a tight end just outside the top 10, with a great matchup and growing rapport with his new quarterback. In their last meeting against the Panthers, Pitts had 3 catches for 70 yards, totaling 10 points—a solid performance if you’re without Kelce or other key tight ends this week.

Grounds for Concern

Panthers RBs: Without our savior Chuba Hubbard (who I missed dearly in my 12-team league Championship), the Panthers went full RBBC. Raheem Blackshear led the way with 8 carries but had no targets, Mike Boone added 2 carries and 2 targets, and Venus Jones Jr. had 1 carry.

One of Hubbard’s strengths this season, much like Rachaad White’s last year in this system, was his clear-cut RB1 volume, which compensated for inefficiencies. Despite Dave Canales’ commitment to the running game regardless of the score, there’s no single Panthers RB you can confidently trust this week without a defined workhorse.

New Orleans Saints vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Must Start

Saints: Alvin Kamara
Buccaneers: Baker Mayfield, Bucky Irving, Mike Evans

Does this game matter?

Yes! The Buccaneers need to win this game to clinch the division. Additionally, if they win and the Rams lose (with the Rams benching their starters), Tampa Bay would clinch the No. 3 seed. A loss, combined with a Falcons win, would eliminate the Buccaneers from playoff contention.

Matchup Upgrade

Jalen McMillan (WR, Buccaneers): The rookie has been a touchdown machine, scoring six times in the last four games. Baker Mayfield is looking for him without hesitation. McMillan is absolutely on my radar for draft season next year, as late-season surges for rookie wide receivers often signal big things to come (think Rashee Rice last year).

While touchdowns typically regress to the mean over the course of a season, this is one week, for a championship, where we’re all-in! The Saints rank 25th against wide receivers, and the Buccaneers will want to put this game out of reach early, just like they did against the Panthers. McMillan has earned between 5–7 targets in each of the last four games, showcasing consistency. I like him as a league winner this week.

Grounds for Concern

The New Orleans Saints: Outside of Alvin Kamara, it’s hard to trust anyone else on this team. Kendre Miller left early with a concussion, and it’s unclear if Derek Carr will play—or how effective he’ll be if he does. The same uncertainty applies to Chris Olave. It’s just not a good situation overall.

Now, if Kamara and Miller are both sidelined, and you’re without other options like Kyren Williams or Chuba Hubbard, then Clyde Edwards-Helaire (CEH) might be a desperation play worth considering. Tampa Bay’s defense is top 10 against running backs but does allow the sixth-most receptions to the position (5 per game).

Given the likely negative game script for the Saints, CEH might be a dart throw in PPR leagues. Still, proceed with caution, as this isn’t an ideal scenario for a title game.

Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys

Must Start

Commanders: Jayden Daniels, Brian Robinson Jr, Terry McLaurin
Cowboys: Rico Dowdle

Does this game matter?

Yes! The Commanders could drop to the 7th seed and face the Eagles, or stay in the 6th seed depending on the outcome. They are expected to play their starters.

Matchup Upgrade

Olamide Zaccheaus (WR, Commanders): Zaccheaus has been on fire the last two games, with at least eight targets and 23 fantasy points in each. The Cowboys defense looked like they had quit last week (which, as a Cowboys fan, I’m fine with—just fire everyone and reset everything, please).

While I expect a slightly better effort from Dallas this week, Zaccheaus faces a defense that ranks 26th against wide receivers and is missing its top cornerback. With Noah Brown on IR, the Commanders don’t have many options outside of McLaurin and Zaccheaus. I don’t expect Washington to take any chances or hold back this week. Zaccheaus is a great flex option or even a WR2 if you’re looking for upside.

Grounds for Concern

Jake Ferguson (TE, Cowboys): Ferguson has struggled since returning from injury. Over his last four games, his fantasy points have been 6.2, 4.3, 10.0, and 2.8. Despite seeing 24 targets during this stretch, he’s only TE23 in that span.

We also don’t know how much Cooper Rush will play versus Trey Lance, and it’s unclear how that will affect Ferguson’s usage. With so much uncertainty, I’d leave him on the bench this week—he’s simply too risky in an already shaky Cowboys offense.

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts

Must Start

Jaguars: Brian Thomas Jr.
Colts: Jonathan Taylor

Does this game matter?

No! Neither team is in playoff contention. This game is more about evaluating talent and finishing the season strong.

Matchup Upgrade

Anthony Richardson (if playing): Richardson has been inconsistent this season but has shown improvement since returning from his benching. His recent performances have alternated between 20+ point outings and low-teens scores.

This week, he faces a Jaguars defense that ranks dead last in points allowed to QBs and gives up the 6th most rushing yards to the position. This is a dream matchup for Richardson, who earns a about half of his fantasy points on the ground. If you’re looking for a high-upside player to help win your week, Richardson is a fantastic option.

Grounds for Concern

Colts Defense: Avoid this defense at all costs! The Colts rank in the bottom 11 against every skill position and have failed to deliver in favorable matchups.

Over the last three weeks, no team has scored more than six points against the Jaguars, with two teams managing only three points. The Colts defense isn’t generating turnovers or sacks at the necessary rate to have fantasy relevance. Plus, they were torched by the Giants last week. Regardless of matchup, this unit is far too risky to trust in a championship scenario.

Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans

Must Start

Texans: None
Titans: None

Does this game matter?

No! The Texans are locked into the 4th seed (and another Saturday playoff game, as is tradition), while the Titans have already been eliminated from postseason contention. Expect the Texans to rest their starters, while the Titans have hinted at a potential timeshare between their quarterbacks.

Matchup Upgrade

Dare Ogunbowale (RB, Texans): If you’re in a bind, Ogunbowale is a sneaky play. He’s likely to serve as the primary pass-catching back in this game, facing a Titans defense that is mid-pack against running backs.

In the three games Joe Mixon missed earlier this year, Ogunbowale stepped up and averaged 4 catches and over 40 receiving yards per game. While Dameon Pierce may handle the bulk of the carries, Ogunbowale’s ability to secure valuable passing touches makes him the better fantasy option. If you dare to start Dare, he could reward you with a solid flex performance in this matchup.

Grounds for Concern

Dameon Pierce (RB, Texans): Pierce has been a shell of his former rookie-season self. Two years ago, he was a revelation, rushing for nearly 1,000 yards before injuries derailed his season. Last year, however, he failed to eclipse 500 rushing yards and lost his starting job to Devin Singletary.

While Pierce might get the majority of carries in this game, his lack of efficiency is a concern. The matchup against Tennessee isn’t particularly enticing either, and Pierce’s pass-catching limitations further cap his upside. In games where he was the lead back last season, Pierce averaged a dismal 2.9 yards per carry. If you’re in need of a play, Ogunbowale’s pass-catching role makes him a far more appealing option than Pierce in PPR leagues.

Buffalo Bills vs. New England Patriots

Must Start

Bills: None
Patriots: None

Does this game matter?

No! The Bills have locked up the division and the #2 seed in the AFC. Meanwhile, the Patriots have no playoff aspirations and are incentivized to lose, as a loss secures them the #1 overall draft pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Matchup Upgrade

Ray Davis (RB, Buffalo): Davis is a strong candidate for an increased workload this week with the Bills likely to rest James Cook and their key starters. In the week Cook missed earlier this season, Davis delivered an impressive performance: 20 carries for 97 yards and 3 catches for 55 yards, resulting in 18.2 fantasy points.

He has demonstrated explosiveness and the ability to shoulder the load when called upon. While it’s unclear how much the Bills will involve their other backs, Davis has the best chance to produce meaningful fantasy points. If you’re looking for a flex play with potential upside, Davis is a solid option.

Grounds for Concern

Rhamondre Stevenson (RB, New England): Stevenson’s struggles continue. Last week, he was benched again for fumbling and received just 2 carries for the entire game. Antonio Gibson stepped in and performed admirably, with 12 carries for 63 yards, further muddying the running back situation in New England.

Since Week 11, Stevenson has been a major fantasy disappointment, averaging just 8.4 points per game. With the Patriots incentivized to lose and his snap count unclear, Stevenson is far too risky to trust in your lineup during a critical fantasy matchup. Look for other options at running back if you can.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos

Must Start

Chiefs: None
Broncos: Bo Nix, Courtland Sutton

Does this game matter?

Yes for the Broncos, No for the Chiefs! The Broncos need a win to secure their playoff spot. The Chiefs, already locked into the #1 seed, will likely rest their starters or limit their playing time.

Matchup Upgrade

Marvin Mims Jr. (WR, Broncos): Mims has been on fire since Week 13, averaging 16.4 fantasy points per game. While he’s had two games under 10 points in that span, his recent performances have showcased his explosive ability and growing role in Sean Payton's offense.

With the Chiefs expected to rest key defensive starters, Mims has a prime opportunity to exploit a depleted secondary in a must-win game for Denver. His boom/bust nature makes him an ideal play for managers needing upside this week.

Grounds for Concern

Carson Steele (RB, Chiefs): It’s tempting to assume volume equals fantasy production, but that’s not the case here. While Steele may get 15 touches with the Chiefs resting Isaiah Pacheco, he faces a Broncos defense that allows the second-fewest yards per carry in the league.

Even with potential garbage-time opportunities, Steele’s ceiling is capped in this tough matchup. If you’re desperate for an RB streamer, there are likely better options available.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals

Must Start

49ers: Isaac Guerendo, Jauan Jennings, George Kittle
Cardinals: Kyler Murray, Trey McBride

Does this game matter?

No! Neither team has playoff implications this week. Expect limited to no action from players like James Conner and Brock Purdy, with the focus shifting to backups and younger players.

Matchup Upgrade

Michael Carter (RB, Cardinals): Carter stepped up last week in relief of James Conner and Trey Benson, delivering a strong performance with 13 carries for 70 yards and 2 receptions for 11 yards. Over the past two weeks, he’s averaged nearly 10 fantasy points per game.

With Conner and Benson likely out again, Carter is poised for another significant workload against a 49ers defense that, while solid, is playing for nothing. If Carter manages to find the end zone, he could jump into RB1 territory, making him a sneaky start for those in need of running back help.

Grounds for Concern

Deebo Samuel (WR, 49ers): Deebo’s production has been wildly inconsistent this season. Last week, he scored on a single target for a touchdown but managed only 3 rushes for 19 yards otherwise.

Since the bye in Week 9, he’s had just one game with more than 5 catches and four games with fewer than 4 receptions. With the 49ers likely limiting starters in a meaningless game, Deebo’s limited involvement makes him a risky start. He should be on the bench this week if he even suits up.

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets

Must Start

Dolphins: De’Von Achane, Tyreek Hill, Jonnu Smith
Jets: Davante Adams, Garrett Wilson

Does this game matter?

Yes! The Dolphins need a win and a Broncos loss to make the playoffs. However, if the Broncos win on Saturday, the Dolphins will be eliminated. Keep a close eye on who is active or rested for Miami in that scenario.

Matchup Upgrade

Tyler Conklin (TE, Jets): Conklin has quietly been productive, scoring double-digit points in back-to-back games with at least 7 targets in each. The Dolphins rank in the bottom 10 against tight ends, presenting a favorable matchup.

Given the narrative of what might be Aaron Rodgers' last game as a Jet—or potentially his final game ever—there’s a decent chance the Jets will take more shots through the air, boosting Conklin's value. He’s a strong streaming option for anyone needing a TE this week.

Grounds for Concern

Aaron Rodgers (QB, Jets): Nostalgia doesn’t win fantasy championships. Rodgers has had an inconsistent season, and he now faces a Dolphins defense that allows the fewest points to quarterbacks.

While Rodgers might aim for a memorable farewell, the risk of starting him in a critical fantasy week is far too high. If you have other options at QB, it’s best to leave Rodgers on your bench.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Los Angeles Rams

Must Start

Seahawks: Zach Charbonnet, Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Rams: None

Does this game matter?

Maybe. The Rams are benching their starters, which is puzzling since a win locks them into the 3rd seed. A loss could drop them to the 4th seed, forcing them to face the loser of Minnesota and Detroit. While the Seahawks have nothing to play for, they'll likely approach this game with full effort.

Matchup Upgrade

Tutu Atwell (WR, Rams): Atwell was productive earlier this season when Kupp and Nacua were sidelined, posting fantasy scores of 13.3, 12.2, 12.5, and 11.1 points from Weeks 3–7. With the Rams resting their starters, Atwell should step into a more prominent role in the passing game.

For deeper leagues or as a sleeper, Blake Corum (RB) is another name to watch. If the Rams lean on their backup running backs, Corum could see enough volume to be a flex-worthy option.

Grounds for Concern

D.K. Metcalf (WR, Seahawks): Metcalf’s production has been underwhelming. He hasn’t surpassed 4 catches since Week 11, and his target share has dropped significantly, with only 3 targets in two of the last three games.

While the Rams defense is mid-pack against WRs and will likely rest their starters, it’s hard to trust Metcalf beyond low-end WR2 expectations unless he finds the end zone. If you have stronger, more consistent options, consider benching him.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Las Vegas Raiders

Must Start

Chargers: J.K. Dobbins, Ladd McConkey
Raiders: Brock Bowers

Does this game matter?

Maybe. The Chargers’ playoff seeding hinges on the Steelers' result. If the Steelers win, the Chargers are locked into the 6th seed and have no incentive to play their starters. If the Steelers lose, the Chargers could move up to the 5th seed and would likely play to win.

Matchup Upgrade

Ameer Abdullah (RB, Raiders): Abdullah is on fire, coming off a career-best game with 115 rushing yards and 32 receiving yards in the Raiders' victory over the Saints. Raiders interim coach Antonio Pierce has demonstrated a willingness to ride the hot hand, and Abdullah has now scored 17+ points in three straight games.

The Chargers defense is generally strong against running backs, ranking 7th, but they are vulnerable to pass-catching backs, allowing the 6th-most receptions to the position (5 per game). Abdullah thrives in this role, making him a solid flex option with RB2 upside in PPR leagues.

Grounds for Concern

Quentin Johnston (WR, Chargers): Johnston’s season has been disappointing. Despite his physical tools, he has failed to carve out a consistent role in the Chargers’ offense. His 54.5% catch rate and 6.8 yards per target, per ESPN, are glaringly poor for a player catching passes from Justin Herbert.

Johnston has not scored over 10 fantasy points in games where he hasn’t scored a touchdown. Against a Raiders defense that has improved under Pierce and with Herbert possibly playing a reduced role, Johnston is best left on your bench this week.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions

Must Start

Vikings: Sam Darnold, Aaron Jones, Justin Jefferson,

Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson

Lions: Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown,

Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta

Does this game matter?

Absolutely! This is the game of the week, with both teams vying for the first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Expect all hands on deck for both squads.

Matchup Upgrade

None. Every notable player in this matchup is a stud. Jameson Williams deserves a special shout-out, as he’s emerging as a fantasy star. His breakout this season has shown flashes of brilliance, and he’s poised to be a top-20 WR next year. Remember this when drafting next season—he might be under-drafted due to earlier inconsistencies in his career.

Grounds for Concern:

Aaron Jones (RB, Vikings): Jones sustained a quad injury last week against the Packers, which could limit his effectiveness. However, early reports are optimistic—he practiced with the team on Thursday, a strong indicator he’ll have a full workload. Just be diligent and monitor injury updates leading into the weekend.