With the fantasy playoffs just around the corner, every matchup is crucial. Week 14 is upon us, and for fantasy managers, this means one thing: lineup decisions are more important than ever. As you prepare for the week ahead, it’s vital to scrutinize your options and make informed choices that could secure your playoff spot or even a coveted bye week.
Flex Decisions: The Heart of Fantasy Lineups
The Flex position can be a tricky one. Often, you find yourself weighing players who seem equally matched, leaving you to wonder who will deliver the points you need. The key here is to look closely at the opportunities available within each player’s offense and consider their matchups. This careful analysis will help you make the best decision for your lineup.
After diving into the rankings, we’ve pinpointed five players who could be game-changers for your Flex spot this week. If you’ve been debating about any of these names, it’s time to make the call and get them into your lineup.
Players to Consider for Your Flex Spot
Jauan Jennings, WR, San Francisco 49ers
Jauan Jennings started the season strong but has recently cooled off, failing to hit double digits in fantasy points for two consecutive weeks. However, it’s essential to look beyond those numbers. The 49ers faced a backup quarterback in Week 12 and played in harsh weather conditions in Week 13, resulting in their lowest offensive yardage totals of the season.
Now, with Brock Purdy back at the helm and a favorable weather forecast, Jennings is poised for a breakout. Since returning in Week 10, he has been a target magnet, leading the team with 8.0 targets per game. With Christian McCaffrey out, Jennings’ role is likely to expand even further. Despite the Chicago Bears ranking 29th in fantasy points allowed to wide receivers, Jennings should be a must-start this week. With six teams on bye, he’s a no-brainer addition to your lineup.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR, New Orleans Saints
Typically, Marquez Valdes-Scantling wouldn’t be your go-to Flex option. He’s known for his low target rate, ranking 149th out of 167 pass catchers with at least 20 targets this season. However, he’s been surprisingly effective lately, catching a touchdown in three straight games, with two of those being long scores.
This week, Valdes-Scantling faces the New York Giants, whose defense has struggled significantly, particularly against deep passes. The Giants rank third in receptions and sixth in yards allowed on deep targets. With Valdes-Scantling seeing two deep targets per game recently, this matchup could provide him with the opportunity to convert one of those into a big play.
Jerome Ford, RB, Cleveland Browns
Nick Chubb’s struggles this season have opened the door for Jerome Ford to step up. After a devastating knee injury, Chubb has not been the same, averaging just 2.98 yards per carry. In contrast, Ford has been making the most of his opportunities.
In recent games, particularly against the Saints and Broncos, Ford has seen significant snap counts, playing over 59% of the snaps. With the Steelers’ offense capable of scoring, this could lead to a game script that favors Ford. He’s drawn four targets in a game with Jameis Winston this season, and with the Steelers’ pass rush likely putting pressure on Winston, expect some checkdowns that could boost Ford’s fantasy value.
Brandin Cooks, WR, Dallas Cowboys
Brandin Cooks made his return last week and immediately slotted back into the Cowboys’ offense. While his stat line of 3 catches for 16 yards isn’t eye-popping, he managed to earn a 19.4% target share in his first game back.
This week, Cooks faces a Cincinnati Bengals secondary that has struggled throughout the season. With the Bengals allowing opposing wide receivers to hit 15 fantasy points in six straight games, Cooks could be in line for a productive outing. The Cowboys’ offense is likely to be active, and with Cooper Rush expected to throw plenty, Cooks should have ample opportunities to make an impact.
Jameson Williams, WR, Detroit Lions
Jameson Williams has found a way to stay relevant in fantasy despite his long touchdown-dependent reputation. Over the last few weeks, he’s seen enough volume to provide a solid floor. With 20 targets in his last three games, he’s maintained an 18% target share.
This week, Williams faces the Green Bay Packers in a matchup that promises to be high-scoring, with a total of 51.5 points. If the All-Pro corner Jaire Alexander is sidelined, Williams’ chances of making a big play increase dramatically. Expect the Lions to pull out all the stops in this crucial NFC North matchup, and Williams could be the beneficiary of that strategy.
Final Thoughts
As you finalize your lineup for Week 14, remember that every decision counts. The players highlighted here have the potential to make a significant impact on your fantasy team. Whether it’s Jennings’ resurgence, Ford’s rising role, or Williams’ big-play potential, these players could be the keys to your success as you head into the playoffs. Don’t hesitate to make those tough calls—your playoff hopes depend on it!
