As the fantasy football championship week unfolds, every roster decision becomes critical. This article highlights key wide receivers to start and avoid in Week 17, providing insights into their recent performances and upcoming matchups. With injuries impacting many top-tier players, selecting the right wide receiver can make or break your team’s chances of victory.
Evaluating Top Performers for Week 17
In this section, we delve into the standout wide receivers who have demonstrated consistent performance and favorable matchups. These players present a strong case for inclusion in your championship lineup.
Ladd McConkey of the Los Angeles Chargers has been an unstoppable force, recording over 50 receiving yards in eight consecutive games—a feat not seen since Odell Beckham Jr. His chemistry with quarterback Justin Herbert makes him a reliable option against the New England Patriots' struggling pass defense. Similarly, Garrett Wilson of the New York Jets has shown impressive consistency, surpassing 50 yards in his last three games. Facing the Buffalo Bills, who have struggled significantly against the pass recently, Wilson is poised for another productive outing. Lastly, Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks has been on a tear, accumulating at least 70 receiving yards and five touchdowns since Week 9. The Chicago Bears, known for their poor pass defense, will likely struggle to contain him.
Ladd McConkey's remarkable streak of eight straight games with over 50 receiving yards underscores his value as a top target for Justin Herbert. The Patriots' bottom-10 ranking in dropback success rate allowed further solidifies McConkey's appeal. Garrett Wilson's resurgence aligns well with the Jets' improved passing game, making him a viable option despite Davante Adams' presence. The Bills' recent defensive woes provide an ideal scenario for Wilson to excel. Meanwhile, Jaxon Smith-Njigba's hot streak continues, with significant contributions since Week 9. The Seahawks' matchup against the Bears, who rank poorly in defending the pass, bodes well for Smith-Njigba's continued success.
Navigating Risky Choices in Week 17
This segment focuses on wide receivers who pose higher risks due to inconsistent performances or challenging matchups. Understanding these potential pitfalls is crucial for optimizing your fantasy lineup.
Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals faces a formidable challenge against the Denver Broncos' sturdy pass defense. Despite scoring four touchdowns in his last five games, Higgins may struggle given the Broncos' recent success in limiting wide receiver production. D.J. Moore of the Chicago Bears also presents a risky choice, having surpassed 50 yards only once in the past three weeks. Out-targeted by teammate Keenan Allen, Moore's average depth of target has decreased, making him less appealing in standard scoring leagues. Jordan Addison of the Minnesota Vikings offers a decent floor in PPR formats but lacks consistency in standard scoring. Facing the Green Bay Packers, known for their strong pass defense, Addison's productivity may be stifled.
Tee Higgins' recent touchdown spree might not translate into success against the Broncos, who have allowed just one touchdown to wide receivers in the last four weeks. Their third-lowest EPA on dropbacks since Week 12 adds to the difficulty. D.J. Moore's diminishing role and inconsistent yardage output make him a risky pick, especially in standard scoring leagues. The Seattle Seahawks' ability to limit secondary pass-catching options compounds Moore's challenges. Jordan Addison's weekly receptions offer some stability in PPR formats, but his lack of yardage and touchdowns raises concerns. The Packers' fifth-fewest EPA on dropbacks and limited touchdowns allowed all season suggest Addison may face a tough battle in Week 17.