Bye weeks are starting to hit fantasy rosters hard with six teams getting a break this week. During this bye-week Armageddon, we’ll be without Bijan Robinson, Josh Allen, Ja’Marr Chase, Alvin Kamara, and more. With several star players getting the week off, some fantasy managers will be forced to get creative with their lineup.
Flex Position Decisions: The Challenge of Bye Weeks
The hardest place to make lineup decisions can be at your Flex. There are few players who are clearly better talents or fantasy options, and it can feel like you’re just guessing which player is a better choice that week. The best thing you can do is consider available opportunity within an offense and assess the player’s matchup to make an informed decision.
After combing through the rankings, we’ve identified five players who could shine in your Flex spot this week. If you’ve been wavering on any of these players, save yourself some time and get them into your lineup.
Week 12 Fantasy Football Rankings
QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/ST | Kickers
Fantasy Football Week 12 Flex Finder: Sleepers Who Can Pay Off
Quentin Johnston, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
Quentin Johnston has been on a revenge tour this year after facing criticism as a rookie. With six touchdowns in eight games, he’s proven to be a valuable asset, finishing as a WR3 or better in three consecutive weeks. But beware! His floor can be shaky due to inconsistent volume, as he has only surpassed a 20% target share in two games this season.
This week, Johnston faces a Ravens defense that is a nightmare for opposing passers. They rank first in pass rate over expectation against and allow the most passing yards per game. With teams throwing the ball on 65.2% of plays against Baltimore, don’t be surprised if Justin Herbert connects with Johnston for some explosive plays.
Bucky Irving, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Bucky Irving’s role in the Tampa Bay backfield has become more defined, especially as the Buccaneers have struggled recently. While Rachaad White has been the lead back, Irving has outperformed him in carries in three of the last four games.
Week 12 could be a big one for Irving. The Buccaneers are 5.5-point favorites against the Giants, and if they can establish a lead, Irving could see 15-plus touches. With the Giants ranking first in yards per carry allowed, Irving has a great chance to make a significant impact on the ground.
Christian Watson, WR, Green Bay Packers
Christian Watson has had a rollercoaster ride this season, but recent trends suggest he’s finding his footing. With Romeo Doubs and Jayden Reed holding down their roles, Watson is starting to see more opportunities. He logged a season-high route participation of 70% last week, turning that chance into 150 receiving yards.
If Watson can maintain a 70% route share, he becomes a high-ceiling Flex option. His ability to win vertically and draw end zone targets gives him a chance to score big, even if he doesn’t dominate the target share.
Kareem Hunt, RB, Kansas City Chiefs
Kareem Hunt has emerged as one of the top waiver pickups this season, delivering four RB1 performances in seven games. His value may be short-lived with Isiah Pacheco potentially returning, but Hunt still has a chance to shine this week.
The Carolina defense has struggled against the run, ranking 22nd or worse in most rushing metrics. They allow a staggering 28.3 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs, the most in the NFL. If Hunt continues to lead the backfield, he could easily rack up 100 yards and multiple touchdowns.
DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
DeAndre Hopkins has put fantasy managers through an emotional roller coaster this season. After a promising start, he has struggled with inconsistent usage, particularly with JuJu Smith-Schuster back in the mix. His route participation dipped to 51% last week, raising concerns about his reliability.
However, this week presents a favorable matchup against the Panthers, who rank 31st in EPA per dropback. Carolina’s defensive struggles could allow Hopkins to exploit single-high safety looks, which he has thrived against this season. If he can capitalize on this opportunity, he might just deliver a high-end performance.
Week 12 Roster Management Tips
Stock Watch | Trade Advice | Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em | Sleepers | Busts | Usage | Weather
As we navigate through this challenging bye week, remember that creativity and strategic thinking are key. The players highlighted above could provide the spark your lineup needs to overcome the absence of your star players.
So, who will you trust to step up in your Flex position? Whether it’s the explosive potential of Johnston, the emerging role of Irving, or the high-ceiling plays from Watson, Hunt, and Hopkins, make sure to weigh your options carefully. With the right choices, you can still come out on top, even in the face of bye week adversity!
