Regardless of their team’s record, the best fantasy managers are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their rosters. While the waiver wire can offer plug-and-play options to navigate bye weeks, the real game-changer is often found on the trading block. As we approach Week 12 of the NFL season, it’s time to dive into the strategies that can elevate your fantasy team.
Understanding the Trading Landscape
When it comes to trading, savvy managers know that emotions can run high in the fantasy world. A couple of outlier performances can cloud a manager’s judgment, leading them to overlook a player’s long-term potential. This is where the art of trading comes into play. By capitalizing on these emotional swings, you can buy low on underperforming players and sell high on those exceeding expectations.
Even if you’re new to fantasy football, you’ve likely heard the mantra: buy low, sell high. This fundamental strategy is crucial as we navigate the trading landscape. With the fantasy trade deadline looming for most leagues, this will be your last chance to make impactful moves for the 2024 season.
Top Buy-Low Candidates for Week 12
Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons
Let’s be honest: a 10.3-point performance isn’t going to make anyone eager to trade Bijan Robinson at a discount. However, if you have the assets, now is the time to target this elite running back. Robinson’s playoff schedule is favorable, with matchups against the Raiders, Giants, and Commanders. All three defenses rank average or worse in terms of fantasy points allowed to running backs. With Robinson hitting his stride, he could be a pivotal piece in your championship run.
Buy-Low Rating: 6/10
Potential Trade Package: Kyren Williams and Calvin Ridley
Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears
The Chicago offense has shifted its focus, and rookie Rome Odunze is reaping the benefits. With Keenan Allen struggling, Caleb Williams has turned to Odunze, who has seen a significant uptick in targets post-bye. In Week 11, he led the team in targets for the third time in four weeks. With a favorable playoff schedule against Minnesota, Detroit, and Seattle, Odunze is a worthwhile trade target that can be acquired for a bench asset.
Buy-Low Rating: 5/10
Potential Trade Package: Quentin Johnston
Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
After a hot start, Brian Thomas Jr.’s value has dipped, but he still has potential. With Trevor Lawrence’s return uncertain, Thomas’s outlook is somewhat volatile. However, he could command a 25-30 percent target share for the rest of the season. With Gabe Davis sidelined, Thomas will share the field with Parker Washington and Devin Duvernay, both of whom have underwhelming target rates. This could mean increased opportunities for Thomas, who has the playmaking ability to capitalize on his chances.
Buy-Low Rating: 5/10
Potential Trade Package: Ladd McConkey and Austin Ekeler
Evan Engram, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars
With Christian Kirk out, Evan Engram has stepped up, drawing 30.5 percent of the targets over the past three weeks. Despite this heavy usage, he hasn’t surpassed 12 PPR points in any of those games. However, with 13.6 expected fantasy points per game, Engram has the potential to perform as a high-end TE1. If you’re lacking a stable starting option, consider acquiring him.
Buy-Low Rating: 7/10
Potential Trade Package: Cade Otton
Bo Nix, QB, Denver Broncos
Bo Nix has been a revelation for fantasy managers, recently delivering one of the best performances of his career against Atlanta. With 307 yards and four touchdowns, Nix is making a strong case for the OROY award. The Broncos’ upcoming matchups against the Colts, Chargers, and Bengals provide him with excellent opportunities to shine. Both the Colts and Bengals rank as top-10 matchups for quarterbacks, making Nix a prime trade target for those who have been streaming QBs all season.
Buy-Low Rating: 6/10
Potential Trade Package: Jared Goff and Xavier Worthy
Fantasy Football Trade Advice: Sell-High Candidates
Najee Harris, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Najee Harris has been a steady RB2 this season, but his value is highly matchup-dependent. The Steelers face three tough defenses during the fantasy playoffs: the Eagles, Ravens, and Chiefs. All three rank among the top-10 in rushing yards allowed per game and fantasy points allowed to running backs. Given this tough slate, it might be wise to move Harris before his value plummets.
Sell-High Rating: 7/10
Potential Trade Target: Rhamondre Stevenson (will require a second piece)
Jameson Williams, WR, Detroit Lions
While Jameson Williams has improved, he still fits the “big play merchant” mold, with nearly half of his production coming from just four plays. The Lions face defenses that excel at limiting big plays during the fantasy playoffs, including the Bills, Bears, and 49ers. As a secondary weapon in the offense, Williams could struggle in these matchups, making him a candidate to sell high.
Sell-High Rating: 6/10
Potential Trade Target: George Pickens (will require a second piece)
Jared Goff, QB, Detroit Lions
With the Lions’ receivers facing tough matchups, Jared Goff’s production is likely to suffer as well. The upcoming games against the Bills, Bears, and 49ers are all bottom-10 matchups for quarterbacks. Goff’s effectiveness is also tied to the rushing attack, leading to volatility in his fantasy output. If you’re looking to capitalize on his current value, now might be the time to trade him.
Sell-High Rating: 7/10
Potential Trade Target: Anthony Richardson
As we head into Week 12, the trade block is buzzing with potential. Whether you’re looking to buy low on promising players or sell high on those who may not deliver in the playoffs, now is the time to make your move. Keep an eye on matchups, player performances, and, most importantly, your league’s trade deadline. Happy trading!
