The NFL is gearing up for its ultimate showdown, the conference championships, where dreams and destinies will be decided this weekend. With the stakes higher than ever, it’s an ideal moment to dive into daily fantasy sports (DFS) on platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, or SuperDraft. The excitement is palpable, and the opportunity to cash in on your fantasy knowledge is right at your fingertips!
As we enter this thrilling phase of the season, The Sporting News is here to guide you through the DFS landscape. We’ve compiled a fresh lineup of sleepers and value plays that can help you maximize your budget while building a competitive roster. The goal? To spotlight those hidden gems that can elevate your lineup and set you apart from the competition.
For years, our column has been dedicated to uncovering undervalued players each week on DraftKings, FanDuel, and SuperDraft. While many can identify the top-tier DFS stars, it’s the savvy selection of sleepers and value picks that can truly make a difference in your lineup. These are the players who can provide that extra edge and turn your fantasy dreams into reality.
Best NFL DFS sleepers for conference championships: Quarterback
Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs vs. Bills (DK: $6,000 | FD: $7,700 | SD: 1.25x)
Mahomes is a name that needs no introduction, yet it’s shocking to see him as the most affordable starting QB this weekend. How can that be? This future Hall-of-Famer has proven time and again that he thrives under pressure, boasting an impressive 16-3 postseason record. With home-field advantage at Arrowhead Stadium, he’s poised for another stellar performance.
The Bills present a formidable defense, but they tend to falter on the road. Mahomes, with his arsenal of weapons including Travis Kelce and DeAndre Hopkins, is a matchup-proof talent. In a game projected to be a nail-biter with a score around 25-23 in favor of Kansas City, Mahomes is a must-have in your DFS lineup.
Best NFL DFS sleepers for conference championships: Running back
Kareem Hunt, Chiefs vs. Bills (DK: $5,400 | FD: $6,000 | SD: 1.5x)
Hunt has reclaimed his position as the lead back in Kansas City, out-touching Isiah Pacheco 9-to-5 in the divisional round. Facing a Buffalo defense that ranks among the most generous to running backs, Hunt could be in for a big day. Don’t be surprised if he finds the end zone again this week!
Austin Ekeler, Commanders at Eagles (DK: $5,300 | FD: $5,600 | SD: 1.55x)
Ekeler made his mark last week with 12.8 DK points against a tough Detroit defense. This week, he faces another challenging matchup, but his role as a pass-catching back should see him heavily involved in the game plan. With these prices, he’s an excellent value.
Other strong RB values in the conference championship round:
- Ty Johnson, Bills at Chiefs (DK: $4,400 | FD: $5,300 | SD: 1.7x)
- Kenneth Gainwell, Eagles vs. Commanders (DK: $4,600 | FD: $4,800 | SD: 1.7x)
Best NFL DFS sleepers for conference championships: Wide receiver
Dyami Brown, Commanders at Eagles (DK: $4,400 | FD: $5,400 | SD: 1.45x)
Brown has emerged as a postseason star for Washington, racking up 35.7 DK points in recent victories. With a budding connection with rookie QB Jayden Daniels, he could capitalize on the Eagles’ defensive weaknesses, especially if they focus on Terry McLaurin.
Khalil Shakir, Bills at Chiefs (DK: $5,700 | FD: $6,400 | SD: 1.2x)
Shakir is proving to be a reliable target for Josh Allen, consistently putting up solid numbers. With the game projected to be high-scoring, he should see plenty of action and is a valuable addition to your lineup.
Xavier Worthy, Chiefs vs. Bills (DK: $5,500 | FD: $6,500 | SD: 1.25x)
Worthy is a speedy playmaker who has caught 13 of his last 15 targets from Mahomes. As both teams are expected to air it out, he’s a dynamic option to consider for your DFS roster.
Best NFL DFS sleepers for conference championships: Tight end
Dallas Goedert, Eagles vs. Commanders (DK: $4,500 | FD: $5,900 | SD: 1.35x)
Goedert remains a strong value pick at $4,500, especially after a solid showing in the divisional round. With the Commanders being just average against tight ends, he could have a productive game.
Zach Ertz, Commanders at Eagles (DK: $4,300 | FD: $5,500 | SD: 1.4x)
Ertz is another veteran who has found his rhythm, catching all five of his targets last week. Expect him to be a key player in crucial situations, making him a worthwhile DFS option.
Best NFL DFS sleepers for conference championships: D/ST
Buffalo Bills at Chiefs (DK: $2,900 | FD: $4,000)
Selecting a defense this weekend is a bit of a gamble, but the Bills could be a sneaky play. With Mahomes showing some vulnerability this season, a couple of turnovers could turn this pick into a valuable asset for your lineup.
This weekend promises to be filled with excitement and opportunities in the world of NFL fantasy football. With the right strategy and a keen eye for value, you can build a lineup that not only competes but also has the potential to bring home some serious winnings. So gear up, make your picks, and enjoy the thrill of the conference championships!
