Welcome to Week 18, where you’ll see more fantasy sleepers than in any other week of the year. That’s because teams that have clinched postseason berths will be resting starters, which opens up opportunities for backups to put up solid stat lines for their offenses.
Looking at the Week 18 matchups, here are five players you didn’t draft or aren’t locked-in starters who you should consider. Also, for those who want even more fantasy advice, check out Lindsay Rhodes and I on Fantasy Dirt five days a week and live on Sundays!
Finding Hidden Gems in Week 18
As the regular season draws to a close, fantasy football managers are faced with unique challenges and opportunities. With many playoff-bound teams resting their star players, this week presents a golden chance to capitalize on lesser-known talents. Are you ready to explore some intriguing options that could make or break your fantasy lineup?
RB – Blake Corum vs. Seahawks
Blake Corum is stepping into the spotlight as he gets the starting nod for the Rams this week. With the team having already clinched a playoff berth and the NFC West title, they’ll rest their key players. The game against the Seahawks, who have been eliminated from playoff contention, has little significance. This situation sets the stage for Corum to shine, potentially offering No. 2 fantasy running back value in this regular-season finale.
RB – Kenneth Gainwell vs. Giants
With Saquon Barkley resting this week, Kenneth Gainwell is poised for a breakout performance against the Giants. Barkley won’t get his chance to face his former team and chase Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards. Instead, Gainwell will take center stage in a favorable matchup, as Big Blue has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing running backs over the last eight weeks. This is an opportunity you don’t want to miss!
WR – Jalen McMillan vs. Saints
Jalen McMillan has quietly been a standout performer, scoring six touchdowns in his last four games. He has consistently delivered, with at least 16.7 fantasy points in every contest during this stretch. The Buccaneers are fighting for the NFC South title, and facing the Saints, who have allowed the ninth-most points to perimeter receivers since Week 10, could lead to another impressive outing for McMillan. Will he keep the momentum going?
WR – Josh Downs vs. Jaguars
After a disappointing performance in last week’s loss to the Giants, Josh Downs is eager to bounce back. With both Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce having standout games, Downs is ready to reclaim his spot against a Jaguars defense that has struggled against wide receivers all season. With Joe Flacco starting again, Downs has the potential to post top-24 numbers at the position this weekend. Can he rise to the occasion?
TE – Chig Okonkwo vs. Texans
Chig Okonkwo has been on a scoring spree, racking up at least 10.9 fantasy points in his last three games. With 28 targets during this stretch, he’s become an integral part of the Titans’ offense. Facing the Texans, who have surrendered the third-most points to opposing tight ends since Week 10, Okonkwo is set for another productive outing. Will he continue his hot streak?
Maximizing Your Fantasy Potential
This Week 18, the landscape of fantasy football is ripe with opportunities. With key players resting, it’s time to dig deep and find those hidden gems that could elevate your team to victory. Whether it’s Corum’s chance to shine or Gainwell’s opportunity to step up, each of these players has the potential to make a significant impact.
Remember, the key to success in fantasy football is staying informed and being ready to adapt. Keep an eye on injury reports, player performances, and matchups as you finalize your roster. The thrill of the game is just around the corner, and with the right moves, you could be celebrating a fantasy championship.
So, are you ready to take a chance on these sleepers? Week 18 is your moment to shine!
