The excitement of the NFL fantasy season is reaching its peak as we enter Week 13! With the fantasy playoffs just around the corner, every decision counts more than ever. It’s time to sift through those fringe starters in your lineup and make the right calls. Our Sporting News fantasy team is here to help you navigate this crucial week with a fresh batch of sleepers that could make all the difference.
As we reflect on last week, it’s worth noting that our highlighted players—Patrick Mahomes, Ameer Abdullah, and Jerry Jeudy—delivered impressive performances. If you had any of them in your lineup, you likely enjoyed a fruitful week. But the fantasy landscape is ever-changing, and we must adapt quickly. Week 13 presents a new set of matchups ripe for exploitation, and we’re diving deep to uncover the best opportunities.
If you’re pressed for time and can’t comb through every game’s outlook, don’t fret! Our team has thoroughly analyzed the Week 13 slate to pinpoint key situations and matchups worth targeting. Our analysts have each selected a sleeper from every position to give you the edge you need.
Fantasy QB sleepers for Week 13
Michael O’Hara: Drake Maye, New England Patriots — Despite being behind the league’s worst offensive line and lacking weapons, Maye has shown resilience. He’s poised to shine against a struggling Indianapolis defense that has allowed quarterbacks to throw for over 250 yards in three of their last four games. With the Colts giving up the 6th-most passing yards per game, Maye could exploit this matchup in various ways.
Ed Williams: Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams — Stafford had a solid outing against the Eagles, completing 24 of 36 passes for 243 yards and two touchdowns, despite facing constant pressure. This week, he’ll face the Saints, where he should enjoy better protection and have time to connect with open receivers.
Vinnie Iyer: Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars — After a brief hiatus due to injury, Lawrence is set to take on the Texans’ weak pass defense. With a healthy group of complementary receivers, including Brian Thomas Jr., he has the chance to capitalize on Houston’s vulnerabilities.
Fantasy RB sleepers for Week 13
O’Hara: Rico Dowdle, Dallas Cowboys — Dowdle is emerging as a key player in the Cowboys’ backfield. Last week, he played 61% of the snaps and handled 22 of 26 backfield opportunities. Facing a Giants defense that allows 5.2 yards per carry, Dowdle has the potential to run wild this week.
Williams: Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh Steelers — The gap between Najee Harris and Warren is shrinking, with Warren proving to be the more explosive option. As the Steelers face the Bengals, who have a lackluster defense, Warren’s role in the passing game will likely increase, making him a valuable asset.
Iyer: Braelon Allen, New York Jets — After the bye week, the Jets need to establish a run-heavy approach against the Seahawks. Allen is expected to see an expanded role behind Breece Hall, making him a sleeper to watch.
Fantasy WR sleepers for Week 13
O’Hara: Keenan Allen, Chicago Bears — Since joining the Bears, Allen has been a target magnet, leading the team in target rate. After a stellar performance last week, he’s set to face the Lions, who have struggled against slot receivers. Expect Allen to keep the momentum going.
Williams: Devaughn Vele, Denver Broncos — Vele has emerged as a reliable option alongside Courtland Sutton. His role is expanding, and with head coach Sean Payton comparing him to Marques Colston, Vele could surprise fantasy managers this week.
Iyer: Michael Wilson, Arizona Cardinals — The Vikings have been generous to receivers, and Wilson could take advantage of this matchup. He’s a sneaky option for deep leagues, especially in PPR formats.
Fantasy TE sleepers for Week 13
O’Hara: Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans — Schultz has the potential to be a game-changer at tight end. In a favorable matchup against the Jaguars, who rank 30th in scoring defense, he could find the end zone and secure a top-12 finish.
Williams: Zach Ertz, Washington Commanders — While Ertz may not excite fantasy managers, he’s a reliable target for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. With consistent volume over the past several weeks, he could be a sneaky play against the Titans.
Iyer: Pat Freiermuth, Pittsburgh Steelers — Freiermuth is likely to be involved in the passing game against the Bengals. With a fair chance of scoring a touchdown, he could deliver solid production.
Fantasy defense sleepers for Week 13
O’Hara: Tampa Bay Buccaneers — The Buccaneers are a defense to consider this week. Despite Bryce Young’s recent improvement, he still presents an opportunity for defensive streamers, making Tampa Bay a solid choice.
Williams: Buffalo Bills — The 49ers have been struggling this season, and with Brock Purdy dealing with a shoulder injury, the Bills’ defense could capitalize on this matchup. Buffalo is already one of the league’s better defenses, making them a prime candidate for your lineup.
Iyer: Washington Commanders — After a disappointing performance last week, the Commanders are looking to bounce back against the Titans, who have been generous to opposing defenses. Expect a more active and energetic playmaking effort this week.
As we gear up for Week 13, remember that every decision matters. Whether you’re setting your lineup or making waiver wire moves, these sleepers could be the key to your fantasy success. Get ready to make those strategic plays and enjoy the thrill of NFL fantasy football!
