The NFL playoffs are here, and excitement is in the air! With 12 of the 14 postseason teams gearing up for wild-card weekend, the stakes have never been higher. This is not just about the games; it’s also about the thrill of Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, and SuperDraft are buzzing with big-money tournaments featuring all six playoff matchups. Are you ready to dive into the action?
The Sporting News is back with its trusted DFS insights, bringing you a fresh batch of sleepers and value plays. The aim? To spotlight the best cost-effective options available this weekend, ensuring you maximize your daily fantasy investments. After all, anyone can identify the elite stars, but it’s the hidden gems that can elevate your lineup and lead you to victory.
We took a breather during Week 18, just like the Chiefs, but now we’re recharged and ready to tackle the best DFS sleepers and value picks for wild-card weekend. We’ll break down the most affordable yet high-value options at each position, along with their costs and potential scoring boosts on various DFS sites. Let’s get into it!
Best NFL DFS sleepers for Wild Card Weekend: Quarterback
Justin Herbert, Chargers at Texans (DK: $6,000 | FD: $7,600 | SD: 1.4x)
Herbert has quietly been making waves over the last few weeks, averaging an impressive 26.2 DK points per game. With a 73.3-percent completion rate, 303.7 passing yards per game, seven touchdowns, and just one interception, he’s ready to shine. Facing a Texans defense that has allowed 22.9 DK PPG recently, Herbert is primed for a breakout performance this weekend.
Other QBs whose Wild Card Weekend values exceed their price tags:
- Bo Nix, Broncos at Bills (DK: $6,300 | FD: $7,500 | SD: 1.35x)
- Baker Mayfield, Bucs vs. Commanders, Jets vs. Rams (DK: $6,800 | FD: $7,900 | SD: 1.25x)
- Sam Darnold, Vikings at Rams (DK: $6,500 | FD: $7,800 | SD: 1.3x)
Best NFL DFS sleepers for Wild Card Weekend: Running back
Bucky Irving, Buccaneers vs. Commanders (DK: $7,000 | FD: $7,600 | SD: 1.15x)
While $7,000 might not scream “sleeper,” Bucky Irving is a fantastic value, especially with five running backs priced higher. The rookie has taken over as the lead back for Tampa Bay, consistently racking up 17-plus touches since Week 12. With an average of 21.7 DK PPG in games he has completed, he’s a top choice against the Commanders’ subpar run defense.
Jaleel McLaughlin, Broncos at Bills (DK: $4,900 | FD: $5,500 | SD: 1.6x)
Another rising star, McLaughlin has stepped into the starting role over Javante Williams. With 18 touches last week against Kansas City, he’s set to face a Bills defense that has struggled against the run, ranking among the worst in the league. This could be a breakout game for him!
Other strong Wild Card Weekend RB values:
- Aaron Jones, Vikings at Rams (DK: $6,000 | FD: $7,400 | SD: 1.35x)
- James Cook, Bills vs. Broncos (DK: $6,700 | FD: $8,000 | SD: 1.2x)
- Austin Ekeler, Commanders at Bucs (DK: $4,800 | FD: $5,400 | SD: 1.65x)
- Gus Edwards (Q), Chargers at Texans (DK: $4,300 | FD: $5,000 | SD: 1.75x)
Best NFL DFS sleepers for Wild Card Weekend: Wide receiver
Jalen McMillan, Bucs vs. Commanders (DK: $5,200 | FD: $6,400 | SD: 1.3x)
Remember when Chris Godwin’s injury cast doubt on the Bucs’ offense? Jalen McMillan has stepped up big time! He’s averaged 19.8 DK PPG over the last five games, establishing a strong connection with QB Baker Mayfield. With seven touchdown receptions since Week 14, he’s a must-start this weekend.
Marvin Mims Jr., Broncos at Bills (DK: $5,100 | FD: $5,900 | SD: 1.35x)
Mims is finally getting the recognition he deserves. Thanks to a deep-ball connection with Bo Nix, he’s caught all 13 of his targets over the past two weeks for 154 yards and four touchdowns. In a high-scoring game against the Bills, he’s poised to make a significant impact.
Rashod Bateman, Ravens vs. Steelers (DK: $5,000 | FD: $6,100 | SD: 1.35x)
Bateman has stepped up in the absence of Zay Flowers, proving to be a reliable target. With his crisp route-running and dependable hands, he’s a solid WR3 option at a reasonable price.
Other strong Wild Card Weekend DFS values at WR:
- Jordan Addison, Vikings at Rams (DK: $6,100 | FD: $6,800 | SD: 1.2x)
- Romeo Doubs, Packers at Eagles (DK: $5,400 | FD: $5,800 | SD: 1.25x)
- Khalil Shakir, Bills vs. Patriots (DK: $5,900 | FD: $6,600 | SD: 1.3x)
- Olamide Zaccheaus, Commanders at Bucs (DK: $4,400 | FD: $5,600 | SD: 1.5x)
- Demarcus Robinson, Rams vs. Vikings (DK: $4,200 | FD: $4,700 | SD: 1.55x)
Best NFL DFS sleepers for Wild Card Weekend: Tight end
Dallas Goedert, Eagles vs. Packers (DK: $3,900 | FD: $6,000 | SD: 1.25x)
Goedert made a successful return last week after a knee injury, catching four of six targets for 55 yards. With the Packers struggling against tight ends this season, he’s a solid option at a budget-friendly price.
More Wild Card Weekend TEs worth a look:
- T.J. Hockenson, Vikings at Rams (DK: $4,200 | FD: $5,900 | SD: 1.2x)
- Tucker Kraft, Packers at Eagles (DK: $3,700 | FD: $5,300 | SD: 1.35x)
- Will Dissly, Chargers at Texans (DK: $3,400 | FD: $5,000 | SD: 1.45x)
Best NFL DFS sleepers for Wild Card Weekend: D/ST
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Packers (DK: $3,300 | FD: $4,600)
Why settle for a mediocre defense when you can have the best? The Eagles are the top defense in the playoffs, and they come at a lower price than the Ravens and Bills. With Jordan Love struggling on the road and dealing with injuries, this matchup looks favorable for Philadelphia.
Another decent D/ST play for Wild Card Weekend:
- Minnesota Vikings at Rams (DK: $3,000 | FD: $4,100)
This wild-card weekend promises to be thrilling, both on the field and in the DFS realm. With these insights, you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions and potentially cash in big. So, gear up, set those lineups, and enjoy the games!
