Football
Eight Fantasy Football Additions for the First Round of Playoffs
2024-12-09
The fantasy playoffs have come to a close, and now it's time to assess your team's performance and make crucial decisions for the upcoming weeks. Have you made it to the playoffs? Well, of course you have! After all, you've been following my expert advice all season long, and I've made it to the playoffs in each of my leagues. So, you're definitely in the running for a championship, right?

Unlock Your Fantasy Team's Potential with These Week 15 Additions

RB Isaiah Davis, NYJ (Rostered in <5% of leagues)

Isaiah Davis' production is closely tied to Breece Hall's health. However, his near 50-50 usage out of the backfield is hard to ignore. Not only that, but Davis was more efficient on the ground than Braelon Allen, averaging four yards per carry. Even more astonishing was his usage in the passing game. On Sunday, he earned six targets, coming in third on the Jets behind Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams. If Hall misses any more time, Davis, even with Allen healthy, becomes a must-add for the fantasy playoffs. Especially with Jacksonville up next in Week 15, he could be a game-changer.

Imagine the impact Davis could have on your team if Hall were to be sidelined. His ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air makes him a valuable asset. Don't miss out on the opportunity to add him to your roster.

TE Juwan Johnson, NO (Rostered in 10% of leagues)

With Taysom Hill on Injured Reserve, Juwan Johnson, Alvin Kamara, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling are the only options in New Orleans' passing attack. Johnson showed his worth by earning five targets and catching a touchdown in Sunday's win over the New York Giants. In the last two weeks, he has combined for 12 targets, and in Week 15, he faces a Washington Commanders' defense that has allowed the 12th-most non-PPR points to tight ends. In fact, they've given up at least five receptions or a touchdown to opposing tight ends in five straight contests.

This presents a great opportunity for Johnson to shine. His role in the Saints' passing game is likely to increase, and he could be a key contributor in your fantasy lineup. Don't hesitate to add him to your team and take advantage of this favorable matchup.

TE Hunter Henry, NE (Rostered in 40% of leagues)

It's truly amazing that a top 10 tight end on the season is still available in more than half of all leagues. Hunter Henry has been on fire, tallying double-digit PPR fantasy points in three of his last five games. He's earned at least eight targets in four of his last five games and is coming off a bye. If your team is weak at tight end, there's no better time to pick him up!

Henry's consistency and production make him a reliable option in your fantasy lineup. He's proven that he can deliver when it matters most, and with the right matchup, he could be a game-winner. Don't let this opportunity slip away.

WR Adam Thielen, CAR (Rostered in 53% of leagues)

Thielen may be getting up there in years, but he still has the ability to make big plays. Carolina's resurgence has been nothing short of impressive, and Thielen has been the biggest beneficiary. In his last two games, he's earned 21 targets and racked up 43 PPR fantasy points. He also has solid matchups against Dallas, Arizona, and Tampa Bay in the playoffs.

Thielen's experience and skill make him a valuable asset in any offense. His ability to get open and make catches gives him an edge over many younger receivers. Don't underestimate the value he can bring to your fantasy team.

WR Brandin Cooks, DAL (Rostered in 18% of leagues)

Contrary to popular belief, Cooks is still a solid pass-catcher. Jalen Tolbert may be decent, but Cooks should still be considered the No. 2 option in Dallas' passing game. For a team that relies heavily on their passing attack, Cooks should not be overlooked. He scored double-digit fantasy points in his first game back from injury and earned seven targets. This makes him a great option for those looking for a low-priority waiver claim.

Cooks' speed and route-running skills make him a dangerous weapon in the Cowboys' offense. He has the potential to make big plays and turn a mediocre game into a great one. Don't be afraid to add him to your roster and see what he can do.

RB Tank Bigsby, JAX (Rostered in 46% of leagues)

On Sunday, Tank Bigsby may not have been the most efficient runner, but his dominance in the backfield cannot be ignored. He earned 18 carries compared to Etienne's four, showing that he's the clear lead back in Jacksonville. While Etienne dominated as a pass-catcher, Bigsby got the goal line work. In an atrocious Jaguars' offense, touchdowns are everything, and Bigsby has higher TD upside than Etienne currently.

Bigsby's ability to find the end zone gives him added value in fantasy. Even if the offense as a whole is struggling, he has the potential to score big. Don't be afraid to add him to your roster and ride his hot streak.

RB Sean Tucker, TB (Rostered in <5% of leagues)

You saw what Rachaad White did with Bucky Irving out this week, right? He was amazing! But Sean Tucker was also quietly very solid, averaging over 15 yards per carry. Obviously, he won't get much work if both Irving and White are healthy, but there's a chance that Irving aggravates his injury and can't play next week.

If that happens, Tucker will have a great opportunity to perform. He's shown that he can be a reliable option when given the chance. Keep an eye on Irving's health throughout the week and be ready to add Tucker if needed. He could be the key to an upset victory in Week 15.

Defense: Atlanta Falcons

Matchups are the most important thing for defenses in fantasy, and the Atlanta Falcons have two great matchups coming up in the fantasy playoffs. In Week 15, they face the Las Vegas Raiders. For perspective, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers came into Week 14 as the No. 25 defense in fantasy and scored 11 points against Vegas. The Atlanta Falcons came into the weekend as the No. 28 defense, but they still managed to hold their own.

In Week 16, the Falcons get the Giants. These matchups provide a great opportunity for the Falcons to shine. While they may not have the highest ceiling, they'll be a solid streaming option with a reliable floor for the first two weeks of the playoffs. Don't overlook the value of a good defense in your fantasy lineup.

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