Week 15 of the 2021 NFL Season is here, and with it comes Championship Sports Media’s Week 15 Fantasy Football Rankings!
A quarterback (Josh Allen) took home the honor of the highest scoring player in all of fantasy football last week, marking the second straight week that neither a running back nor a wide receiver was able to earn that distinction. Dalvin Cook also made headlines when he stormed back onto the scene to remind everyone why he was a consensus top 3 pick in fantasy drafts this season, scoring 35.2 points and finishing as the overall RB1 for Week 14 while allaying any concerns about Alexander Mattison decreasing his value along the way.
For most leagues, the fantasy playoffs begin this week. Now more than ever, every lineup decision is crucial. Be sure to check out CSM’s Week 15 rankings for help with setting your lineups as you look to make that big playoff push!
This Week’s Contributing Authors:
WEEK 15 PPR RANKINGS
Quarterback
| Rank | Player | Opponent | Brighton | Limesand | Cunningham | Milaszewski | Holler | AVG |
| 1 | Kyler Murray (ARI) | at DET | 1 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 3 | 2.6 |
| 2 | Tom Brady (TB) | vs. NO | 2 | 10 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 3.4 |
| 3 | Josh Allen (BUF) | vs. CAR | 4 | 8 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 3.8 |
| 4 | Aaron Rodgers (GB) | at BAL | 9 | 2 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 4.8 |
| 5 | Patrick Mahomes (KC) | at LAC | 5 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 5.0 |
| 6 | Justin Herbert (LAC) | vs. KC | 3 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 5.6 |
| 7 | Jalen Hurts (PHI) | vs. WAS | 6 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.2 |
| 8 | Dak Prescott (DAL) | at NYG | 7 | 3 | 9 | 13 | 7 | 7.8 |
| 9 | Matthew Stafford (LAR) | vs. SEA | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8.0 |
| 10 | Taysom Hill (NO) | at TB | 10 | 5 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9.0 |
| 11 | Lamar Jackson (BAL) | vs. GB | 12 | 4 | 11 | 9 | NR | 12.4 |
| 12 | Tua Tagovailoa (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 11 | 12 | 19 | 11 | 11 | 12.8 |
| 13 | Russell Wilson (SEA) | at LAR | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13.6 |
| 14 | Kirk Cousins (MIN) | at CHI | 15 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13.8 |
| 15 | Joe Burrow (CIN) | at DEN | 14 | 20 | 13 | 20 | 16 | 16.6 |
| 16 | Jimmy Garoppolo (SF) | vs. ATL | 17 | 22 | 17 | 15 | 14 | 17.0 |
| 17 | Derek Carr (LV) | at CLE | 18 | 17 | 18 | 22 | 17 | 18.4 |
| 18 | Justin Fields (CHI) | vs. MIN | 16 | 14 | 23 | 18 | 22 | 18.6 |
| 19 | Ryan Tannehill (TEN) | at PIT | 19 | 23 | 12 | 16 | 23 | 18.6 |
| 20 | Carson Wentz (IND) | vs. NE | 25 | 15 | 16 | 23 | 20 | 19.8 |
| 21 | Taylor Heinicke (WAS) | at PHI | 21 | NR | 20 | 17 | 21 | 21.0 |
| 22 | Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) | vs. TEN | 20 | 19 | 22 | 21 | NR | 21.6 |
| 23 | Mac Jones (NE) | at IND | 23 | 21 | 21 | 25 | 18 | 21.6 |
| 24 | Cam Newton (CAR) | at BUF | 24 | 18 | 24 | NR | 24 | 23.2 |
| 25 | Teddy Bridgewater (DEN) | vs. CIN | 22 | 24 | NR | NR | 19 | 23.4 |
QB Start of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Taysom Hill. Taysom Hill has finished as the QB4 in both of starts since taking over starting duties under center for the Saints in Week 13. While he has left some to be desired through the air, he has provided a relatively safe floor with his rushing prowess, averaging 87 rushing yards on 11 attempts per game in his 2 starts. This week, Hill and the Saints will travel to Tampa Bay to take on a Bucs team that has allowed the 7th highest fppg to QBs this season. Hill should have the chance to put up some numbers on the ground, as the Bucs have allowed the 6th most rushing yards to QBs on the season and the 3rd most rushing yards to QBs over the past 4 weeks. Taysom Hill once again has top 5 upside this week.
Josh Limesand: Tua Tagovailoa. I like most players against the Jets, and so naturally I like Tua this week. He has a rating of at least 104 in his last four games, and his last time out against the Jets he eclipsed 20 points. I expect him to surpass this number, but at worst he should have a solid outing. In the playoffs, you want to start players with confidence, and I think Tua can give you close to QB1 production if you don’t have one of the sure-fire starters ranked above him.
Nic Cunningham: Matthew Stafford. Stafford has now scored at least 21.98 fantasy points in 3 straight games, while throwing for 3 touchdowns in each of those games. He has gotten back on track in a big way since the Rams’ Week 11 bye. Now, he gets a great matchup with a poor Seahawks defense. Stafford will likely extend his 3-touchdown streak to 4 games in Week 15.
Zach Milaszewski: Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers has been on a roll his past 3 games. He has put up 26+ points, this week he takes on a banged up Ravens defense. I wouldn’t expect that toe injury to hold him back at all this week, Rodgers is set up to have yet another big game this week.
J.D. Holler: Justin Herbert. Herbert has been solid all year, and is never a bad fantasy pick. The 2nd year product of Oregon will get an offensive weapon back this week in Keenan Allen, who is returning from the COVID list. Giving Herbert the opportunity to put even more Fantasy Points up this week.
QB Fade of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Carson Wentz. Carson Wentz has actually been a borderline QB1 in 12 team leagues so far this year. He currently sits as the QB14 on the year and has actually been the QB11 from Week 5 onward. This week, however, Wentz and the Colts host a Patriots defense that has allowed the second fewest fppg to QBs this season. Over the past 4 weeks, the Pats have allowed the lowest average fppg to QBs, holding opposing signal callers to an absurd 6.05 fppg on average. To make matters worse, it was recently announced that the Colts’ starting center, Ryan Kelly, won’t be playing tonight. The Colts may have more trouble moving the ball on the ground as a result, which may put Wentz into some predictable passing situations that the Pats could tee off on. Wentz is the QB25 in my Week 15 rankings.
Josh Limesand: Kirk Cousins. Cousins was underwhelming last week against Pittsburgh. This was due in part to the fact that Dalvin Cook had the whole field to himself on running plays, but also because he had a couple of misses. In Chicago, I think we see more of the same. I expect Kirk to play well, but the Vikings will lean on Cook and try to build a lead. The Bears were just torched by Aaron Rodgers, but they also had a surprising lead and the Packers still needed to throw. You may have to start Cousins this week, but if he has been my QB1, I would be checking the matchups on the waiver wire just in case.
Nic Cunningham: Dak Prescott. While Prescott definitely has the potential to have a huge game against the Giants, I don’t think it will happen. He has been in a bit of a rut recently, scoring under 12 points in 3 of his last 4 games. The Giants also have a struggling offense, meaning that even if Prescott is playing well, the game could get out of hand very quickly. That very probable scenario would lead to Dallas leaning on the running game.
Zach Milaszewski: Joe Burrow. Burrow has looked solid this season, but going into Denver and facing the 4th best defense against fantasy quarterbacks is not a great matchup for him. I’d look elsewhere for your fantasy production this week.
J.D. Holler: Carson Wentz. Wentz will try to bounce off another disappointing week in Fantasy, as he only put up 11.12 points last week in Houston. Although the Colts won in a blowout, Wentz didn’t really to get to throw the ball much, as Indianapolis chose to hand the ball off to star running back Jonathan Taylor. Don’t expect much from Wentz this week either. Meaning the Colts will try to get utilize Taylor all they can, not to mention they play a great defense in the Patriots.
Running Back
| Rank | Player | Opponent | Brighton | Limesand | Cunningham | Milaszewski | Holler | AVG |
| 1 | Jonathan Taylor (IND) | vs. NE | 2 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1.8 |
| 2 | Dalvin Cook (MIN) | at CHI | 1 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2.2 |
| 3 | Austin Ekeler (LAC) | vs. KC | 4 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 2.8 |
| 4 | Alvin Kamara (NO) | at TB | 5 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 9 | 5.2 |
| 5 | Nick Chubb (CLE) | vs. LV | 3 | 5 | 10 | 3 | 16 | 7.4 |
| 6 | Leonard Fournette (TB) | vs. NO | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 5 | 7.4 |
| 7 | Joe Mixon (CIN) | at DEN | 10 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 7.6 |
| 8 | Najee Harris (PIT) | vs. TEN | 8 | 13 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 7.8 |
| 9 | Cordarrelle Patterson (ATL) | at SF | 6 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 8.0 |
| 10 | Aaron Jones (GB) | at BAL | 16 | 6 | 15 | 17 | 6 | 12.0 |
| 11 | James Conner (ARI) | at DET | 11 | NR | 8 | 14 | 4 | 12.6 |
| 12 | David Montgomery (CHI) | vs. MIN | 13 | 10 | 17 | 13 | 18 | 14.2 |
| 13 | Elijah Mitchell (SF) | vs. ATL | 9 | 17 | 11 | 10 | NR | 14.6 |
| 14 | Saquon Barkley (NYG) | vs. DAL | 14 | 11 | 16 | 15 | 20 | 15.2 |
| 15 | Antonio Gibson (WAS) | at PHI | 12 | 21 | 12 | 20 | 12 | 15.4 |
| 16 | Clyde Edwards-Helaire (KC) | at LAC | 19 | 14 | 22 | 18 | 11 | 16.8 |
| 17 | Josh Jacobs (LV) | at CLE | 18 | NR | 13 | 12 | 17 | 17.2 |
| 18 | Javonte Williams (DEN) | vs. CIN | 15 | 15 | 24 | 22 | 14 | 18.0 |
| 19 | Ezekiel Elliott (DAL) | at NYG | 21 | 25 | 18 | 11 | 15 | 18.0 |
| 20 | James Robinson (JAC) | vs. HOU | 17 | 16 | 23 | 16 | 19 | 18.2 |
| 21 | Sony Michel (LAR) | vs. SEA | 20 | 12 | NR | NR | 13 | 19.4 |
| 22 | Melvin Gordon III (DEN) | vs. CIN | 22 | 18 | 21 | NR | 21 | 21.6 |
| 23 | Darrell Henderson Jr. (LAR) | vs. SEA | NR | NR | 14 | NR | NR | 23.6 |
| 24 | A.J. Dillon (GB) | at BAL | 23 | NR | 20 | NR | 25 | 24.0 |
| 25 | Tony Pollard (DAL) | at NYG | NR | 19 | NR | 23 | NR | 24.0 |
RB Start of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Nick Chubb. Since Kareem Hunt joined the Cleveland Browns in 2019, he and Nick Chubb have often operated as a lethal one-two punch out of the backfield. While this has worked more often than not from a football perspective, it has been detrimental to the fantasy value of both backs. However, recent reports indicate that Hunt is unlikely to suit up for Week 15. This is the perfect week for Chubb to get an increased workload, as the Raiders have allowed the 3rd highest average fppg to the RB position thus far this season. Additionally, Chubb has averaged 19.28 fppg in games where Hunt has not tallied a carry since Hunt joined the team in 2019 (11 game sample size). Fire up Chubb with confidence this week. He checks in as the RB3 in my Week 15 rankings.
[In light of recent events, I decided to add an additional RB “Start of the Week” this week.]
James Robinson. We are a long way removed from James Robinson seeming like one of the steals of the draft. He has only finished as the RB10 or higher twice this season, with his most recent top 10 finish occurring way back in Week 4. A major concern with Robinson has been his workload, as former head coach Urban Meyer seemingly refusing to lean on Robinson despite pleas from his rookie quarterback. However, Meyer was fired this week, possibly opening the door for Robinson to emulate his production from last season. This coaching change couldn’t have come at a better time for Robinson’s fantasy managers, as the Jags host a Texans defense that has allowed the most rushing yards and the 5th highest fppg to RBs this season. Robinson has been majorly disappointing recently, but he could provide huge returns in the first week of the fantasy playoffs.
Josh Limesand: D’Onta Foreman. Foreman has become the go-to in this Titans’ backfield, and for a team that likes to run, they have to be excited about their matchup in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh was annihilated on the ground by Dalvin Cook and the Vikings. I don’t think Foreman hits 200 yards, but I think Titans will force the issue so they don’t have to worry about passing the ball. Foreman had 47 yards and a touchdown on just 13 carries last week, but I expect more touches and more production this week.
Nic Cunningham: Elijah Mitchell. He missed last week with various injuries, but has been a true workhorse in his prior games. Mitchell has seen over 25 touches in each of the last 3 games that he has played. That’s an RB1 workload. He is a bit banged up right now, but appears to be on the right track to return this Sunday.
Zach Milaszewski: Nick Chubb. With Baker Mayfield missing this weeks game, Case Keenum will be starting at quarterback for the Browns. Expect the Browns to keep the ball on the ground most of this game. Chubb is set up for a big game and the Browns need a big game from him.
J.D. Holler: Leonard Fournette. In Fournette’s last 5 games, he has scored 10+ in each game, including 3 of the 5 being over 20 points. Fournette has reintroduced himself as a top running back in the NFL, since his arrival in Tampa Bay. Although the Bucs will travel to New Orleans and matchup against a hard run defense, there should be no issues for Fournette as he has passed most of the challenges he’s faced this year.
RB Fade of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Aaron Jones. Aaron Jones is one of only a few players with week-winning upside, but his floor is perhaps lower than ever. He only saw 5 carries last week to Dillon’s 15, but he was able to turn 8 touches into 2 touchdowns, salvaging his day. However, counting on that level of scoring efficiency is a risky proposition. There is a very real chance that Jones was being eased in following his return and will see an increased workload this week. However, it is equally possible that the Packers will lean on Dillon to let Jones fully recover prior to the start of the NFL Playoffs. I acknowledge Jones’ upside, but I am still fading him a bit in a tough matchup (Baltimore has allowed the 6th lowest fppg to RBs this season) and with legitimate concerns about his role moving forward.
Josh Limesand: James Robinson. I have him ranked as a high-end RB 2, but I don’t feel good about it. For a guy that should be starting almost every week, he had 6 carries for 4 yards last week and no targets in the passing game. Jacksonville is scary bad and seems to be full of drama. With how thin RB is right now, Robinson may have to be started against the Texans, which on paper is a good matchup, but with the playoffs starting this week, I am doing my best to avoid him. He cannot be trusted.
Nic Cunningham: Nick Chubb. Las Vegas is a great matchup for Chubb. The Raiders are allowing the 4th most fantasy points to running backs this season. However, Chubb has not had the greatest last few weeks. His lack of work in the passing game has become an issue in games where he doesn’t put up huge rushing totals. He has been under 10 fantasy points each of the last 2 weeks. I’m not telling you to sit Chubb, but don’t be surprised if he doesn’t put up the RB1 numbers that many are expecting this week.
Zach Milaszewski: Saquon Barkley. I had some faith in Barkley this season, but that has gone out the window. Dallas has the 4th best defense against running backs in fantasy. The Giants have just proven that they can’t help Saquon to produce big numbers. And that is unfortunate for Barkley, and his fantasy owners.
J.D. Holler: Ezekiel Elliott. Elliot’s production in the Cowboys offense has slightly decreased over time. With Dallas shifting more towards being classified a pass first team, questions look around Elliot and his involvement in the offense. Zeke is coming off two bad games, in which he didn’t record over 60 yards in both contests. His workload and success could maybe improve this week against the Giants, but would not recommend counting on it.
Wide Receiver
| Rank | Player | Opponent | Brighton | Limesand | Cunningham | Milaszewski | Holler | AVG |
| 1 | Cooper Kupp (LAR) | vs. SEA | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1.2 |
| 2 | Davante Adams (GB) | at BAL | 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2.0 |
| 3 | Justin Jefferson (MIN) | at CHI | 3 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3.0 |
| 4 | Tyreek Hill (KC) | at LAC | 6 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 10 | 6.2 |
| 5 | CeeDee Lamb (DAL) | at NYG | 8 | 3 | 11 | 11 | 5 | 7.6 |
| 6 | Diontae Johnson (PIT) | vs. TEN | 4 | 14 | 6 | 9 | 6 | 7.8 |
| 7 | Chris Godwin (TB) | vs. NO | 7 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 7.8 |
| 8 | Keenan Allen (LAC) | vs. KC | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 8.0 |
| 9 | Stefon Diggs (BUF) | vs. CAR | 10 | 10 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 9.0 |
| 10 | Deebo Samuel (SF) | vs. ATL | 5 | 13 | 13 | 4 | 13 | 9.6 |
| 11 | Hunter Renfrow (LV) | at CLE | 11 | 5 | 12 | 16 | 7 | 10.2 |
| 12 | Ja’Marr Chase (CIN) | at DEN | 12 | 16 | 8 | 10 | 23 | 13.8 |
| 13 | Amari Cooper (DAL) | at NYG | 15 | 7 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 14.2 |
| 14 | Mike Evans (TB) | vs. NO | 14 | 17 | 9 | 21 | 11 | 14.4 |
| 15 | Brandon Aiyuk (SF) | vs. ATL | 20 | 8 | 21 | 24 | 20 | 18.6 |
| 16 | Jaylen Waddle (MIA) | vs. NYJ | NR | 25 | NR | 12 | 8 | 19.4 |
| 17 | D.K. Metcalf (SEA) | at LAR | 13 | NR | 24 | 15 | 21 | 19.8 |
| 18 | Tee Higgins (CIN) | at DEN | 18 | 20 | NR | 14 | 22 | 20.0 |
| 19 | Brandin Cooks (HOU) | at JAC | 16 | 15 | NR | 20 | NR | 20.6 |
| 20 | Tyler Lockett (SEA) | at LAR | NR | 24 | NR | 13 | 14 | 20.6 |
| 21 | Mike Williams (LAC) | vs. KC | 19 | NR | 22 | 22 | 16 | 21.0 |
| 22 | Terry McLaurin (WAS) | at PHI | 21 | NR | 16 | 19 | NR | 21.6 |
| 23 | Michael Pittman Jr. (IND) | vs. NE | 25 | 22 | 19 | 23 | 19 | 21.6 |
| 24 | Marquise Brown (BAL) | vs. GB | 23 | 21 | 18 | NR | 24 | 22.0 |
| 25 | D.J. Moore (CAR) | at BUF | NR | 23 | 17 | 18 | NR | 22.0 |
WR Start of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Diontae Johnson. Diontae Johnson has been the model of consistency so far this season, putting up double digit fantasy points in every game he has played. He is top 10 in receiving yards and receptions for WRs despite missing a game. This week, Johnson and the Steelers host a Titans defense that has allowed the most receptions, most receiving yards, and 2nd most touchdowns to the WR position this season. A PPR monster, Johnson can be fired up with confidence this week in what could be a ceiling game for someone who is known more for his dependable floor. He is the WR4 in my Week 15 rankings.
Josh Limesand: Chris Godwin. This maybe isn’t so much a “start of the week” as it is a “you’re lucky if you’re a Godwin owner” proclamation. Godwin has been targeted an absurd 32 times in his last two games. This amount of volume is fantasy gold, and I’m here to tell you that if you have Chris Godwin, you have at least one easy lineup decision this week.
Zach Milaszewski: Justin Jefferson. Facing the 25th ranked defense in covering wide receivers, Jefferson is due for another big game. Jefferson is averaging more than 20 points a game. The Bears give up 38 points on average to wide receivers a game, get ready for a big Justin Jefferson game.
J.D. Holler: Jaylen Waddle. Waddle will look to come off the Dolphins bye week, the same way he came off. The rookie out of Alabama has shown his dominance through the second half of the season, and will look to finish it off strong. Miami will travel to New York to play the Jets, in both a favorable matchup for Miami, and Waddle.
WR Fade of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Michael Pittman Jr. Michael Pittman Jr. has cooled off considerably in recent weeks. Once sitting at WR7 on the year, Pittman Jr. is now the WR20 for the season. This is actually a great return on investment for a player with an ADP of WR43 coming into the year, but it doesn’t allow Pittman Jr. to remain the “set and forget” steal that he appeared to be at one point in the year. This week is unlikely to be a get right week, as Pittman and the Colts host a New England Patriots defense that has allowed the 4th lowest fppg to the WR position thus far this season. I am fading Pittman Jr. against J.C. Jackson and Co. He is the WR25 in my Week 15 rankings.
Josh Limesand: A.J. Green. Don’t be fooled by his 7 catch, 102-yard performance on Monday night. He also gets a favorable matchup against the Lions this week, but I just don’t see him duplicating this. DeAndre Hopkins is scheduled for an MRI this week, so if he is out I might change my mind, but otherwise, I feel like this past week was an anomaly. Because of his outburst, you may be tempted to FLEX Green, but in his previous 5 games, he was unable to hit 10 fantasy points. Don’t overreact to the outlier of Monday night!
Zach Milaszewski: Michael Pittman Jr. Michael Pittman Jr has been having a solid season. But he has struggled against good defenses. In weeks 11 and 12 against Buffalo and Tampa Bay Pittman scored 4 and 9 points. The Patriots defense is ranked 4th against wide receivers. I would not be expecting much out of Pittman this week.
J.D. Holler: D.K. Metcalf. Metcalf hasn’t provided sufficient fantasy points ever since Seattle’s Bye, in Week 9. He also has been dealing with some Foot and Back issues, and wasn’t present at practice on Wednesday. On top of that, the Seahawks play the rams this week. They are one of the league’s best teams in shutting down the best receivers.
Tight End
| Rank | Player | Opponent | Brighton | Limesand | Cunningham | Milaszewski | Holler | AVG |
| 1 | George Kittle (SF) | vs. ATL | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1.2 |
| 2 | Travis Kelce (KC) | at LAC | 2 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 2.6 |
| 3 | Rob Gronkowski (TB) | vs. NO | 3 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 3.4 |
| 4 | Mark Andrews (BAL) | vs. GB | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 3.6 |
| 5 | Dawson Knox (BUF) | vs. CAR | 5 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 5 | 5.8 |
| 6 | Mike Gesicki (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 7 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7.8 |
| 7 | Zach Ertz (PHI) | at DET | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 9.0 |
| 8 | Kyle Pitts (ATL) | at SF | 8 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 11 | 9.0 |
| 9 | Dalton Schultz (DAL) | at NYG | 9 | 13 | 5 | 12 | 10 | 9.8 |
| 10 | Dallas Goedert (PHI) | vs. WAS | 13 | 7 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 9.8 |
| 11 | Pat Freiermuth (PIT) | vs. TEN | 10 | 12 | 7 | 13 | 9 | 10.2 |
| 12 | Noah Fant (DEN) | vs. CIN | 11 | 16 | 10 | 15 | 18 | 14.0 |
| 13 | Tyler Conklin (MIN) | at CHI | 15 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14.8 |
| 14 | Tyler Higbee (LAR) | vs. SEA | 14 | 14 | 15 | 10 | 22 | 15.0 |
| 15 | Hunter Henry (NE) | at IND | 12 | 22 | 17 | 19 | 12 | 16.4 |
| 16 | Darren Waller (LV) | at CLE | NR | 8 | NR | 3 | 19 | 16.4 |
| 17 | Ricky Seals-Jones (WAS) | at PHI | 17 | 17 | 12 | NR | 15 | 17.4 |
| 18 | Cole Kmet (CHI) | vs. MIN | 22 | 18 | 21 | 17 | 13 | 18.2 |
| 19 | Jared Cook (LAC) | vs. KC | 18 | 23 | 20 | 16 | 17 | 18.8 |
| 20 | Gerald Everett (SEA) | at LAR | 16 | NR | 23 | 23 | 16 | 20.8 |
| 21 | C.J. Ozumah (CIN) | at DEN | 23 | 20 | 19 | 18 | NR | 21.2 |
| 22 | T.J. Hockenson (DET) | vs. ARI | NR | 3 | NR | NR | NR | 21.4 |
| 23 | Evan Engram (NYG) | vs. KC | 21 | 21 | 18 | 22 | NR | 21.6 |
| 24 | Austin Hooper (CLE) | vs. LV | NR | 19 | 14 | NR | 24 | 21.8 |
| 25 | Foster Moreau (LV) | at CLE | 19 | NR | 24 | NR | 20 | 23.0 |
TE Start of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Mike Gesicki. Week 15 will see Mike Gesicki and the Dolphins host a Jets defense that has surrendered the 8th highest average fppg to the TE position thus far this season. Additionally, the status of Jaylen Waddle is currently up in the air. Waddle has been averaging 9.57 targets per game in games where Tua Tagovailoa has attempted 25+ passes. If he were forced to miss this week, he would vacate a rather large target share, some of which could be picked up by Gesicki. To make matters a little bit more appealing, the Jets have allowed the 5th most receptions to TEs over the past 4 weeks. Gesicki, who is currently the TE7 on the year, has a real chance to return top 5 numbers in PPR formats this week.
Josh Limesand: Dallas Goedert. Goedert should always be considered a starter at TE, but if Gardner Minshew plays? He is a must-start and could put up huge numbers. Last time he played with Minshew, he had a bunch of yards and two touchdowns. I like him to contribute in a big way in a big divisional matchup.
Zach Milaszewski: Mike Gesicki. Gesicki has been the 7th best tight end in fantasy this season. He has had some inconsistencies, but he is playing the Jets, who rank 25th against tight ends in fantasy. They give up about 15 points on average to tight ends. With Jaylen Waddle playing well and Devante Parker back, the Jets might forget about Gesicki a little.
J.D. Holler: Dallas Goedert. Goedert is coming off his best game of the year against New York, in which he recorded 105 receiving yards, and 2 touchdowns as well. Expect him to do it again against Washington this week, as they on average give up 11.72 PPG to Tight ends.
TE Fade of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Dallas Goedert. I expect a lot of people to flock to Goedert this week following his 28.5 point performance in Week 13. However, it is important to keep in mind that he turned in this performance with Gardner Minshew throwing him the ball. At this point in time, it seems increasingly likely that Jalen Hurts will return under center for the Eagles in Week 15. In games that Hurts has started this season, Goedert has more single digit performances than double digit performances, even in PPR formats. I’m not saying that Goedert is unstartable; his ceiling would be hard to find in a waiver wire TE. I am, however, fading Goedert a little bit this week. I don’t see him as the locked-and-loaded TE1 that I’m sure many will view him as after his last performance. Goedert is the TE13 in my Week 15 rankings.
Josh Limesand: Dalton Schultz. After his 7 target game against the Raiders on Thanksgiving, Schultz went to 5 targets, then 3 last week. He just isn’t as much of a factor with Lamb, Cooper, and Gallup all in the lineup. Dallas loves to throw, and Schultz is a good TE, but I’m avoiding him if I can. He needs a touchdown to be even close to relevant, and I’m not entrusting my playoff matchup to him.
Zach Milaszewski: Hunter Henry. Henry is a great tight end, but his touches in New England have been very inconsistent. He is mainly a red zone target, but then he becomes very touchdown reliant for a big fantasy day. He floats around 10 even when he catches touchdowns. I would find another option for your tight end.
J.D. Holler: Ricky Seals-Jones. Seals-Jones only had 1 catch last week against the Cowboys, making it a super upsetting week for fantasy owners. WFT’s pass blocking has steeply declined throughout the season, and won’t help the Tight ends potential fantasy points. If Washington continues to struggle on the offensive front, you should count out Seals-Jones in your lineup.
FLEX
| Rank | Player | Opp. | Pos. Rank | Brighton | Limesand | Cunningham | Milaszewski | AVG |
| 1 | Dalvin Cook (MIN) | at CHI | RB1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2.3 |
| 2 | Jonathan Taylor (IND) | vs. NE | RB2 | 2 | 7 | 1 | 2 | 3.0 |
| 3 | Cooper Kupp (LAR) | vs. SEA | WR1 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 3.5 |
| 4 | Austin Ekeler (LAC) | vs. KC | RB3 | 7 | 1 | 3 | 6 | 4.3 |
| 5 | Davante Adams (GB) | at BAL | WR3 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 5.5 |
| 6 | Alvin Kamara (NO) | at TB | RB4 | 8 | 2 | 8 | 7 | 6.3 |
| 7 | Justin Jefferson (MIN) | at CHI | WR3 | 5 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6.8 |
| 8 | Nick Chubb (CLE) | vs. LV | RB5 | 6 | 8 | 21 | 4 | 9.8 |
| 9 | Cordarrelle Patterson (ATL) | at SF | RB6 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 12.8 |
| 10 | Najee Harris (PIT) | vs. TEN | RB7 | 13 | 21 | 5 | 12 | 12.8 |
| 11 | Joe Mixon (CIN) | at DEN | RB8 | 19 | 13 | 9 | 11 | 13.0 |
| 12 | Tyreek Hill (KC) | at LAC | WR4 | 14 | 18 | 11 | 10 | 13.3 |
| 13 | Leonard Fournette (TB) | vs. NO | RB9 | 12 | 14 | 10 | 19 | 13.8 |
| 14 | Diontae Johnson (PIT) | vs. TEN | WR5 | 10 | NR | 13 | 17 | 16.5 |
| 15 | George Kittle (SF) | vs. ATL | TE1 | 21 | 5 | 16 | NR | 17.0 |
| 16 | CeeDee Lamb (DAL) | at NYG | WR6 | 16 | 9 | 23 | 23 | 17.8 |
| 17 | Deebo Samuel (SF) | vs. ATL | WR7 | 11 | NR | NR | 9 | 18.0 |
| 18 | Keenan Allen (LAC) | vs. KC | WR8 | 17 | NR | 17 | 13 | 18.3 |
| 19 | Stefon Diggs (BUF) | vs. CAR | WR9 | 22 | NR | 12 | 16 | 19.0 |
| 20 | Chris Godwin (TB) | vs. NO | WR10 | 15 | NR | 22 | 14 | 19.3 |
| 21 | James Conner (ARI) | at DET | RB10 | 20 | NR | 14 | NR | 21.5 |
| 22 | Travis Kelce (KC) | at LAC | TE2 | 24 | NR | 19 | 18 | 21.8 |
| 23 | Aaron Jones (GB) | at BAL | RB11 | NR | 11 | NR | NR | 22.3 |
| 24 | Elijah Mitchell (SF) | vs. ATL | RB12 | 18 | NR | NR | 20 | 22.5 |
| 25 | Hunter Renfrow (LV) | at CLE | WR11 | 23 | 17 | 25 | NR | 22.8 |
FLEX Start of the Week:
Josh Limesand: George Kittle. You’re obviously starting him at TE, but if you have another top 10 TE, it may be worth considering Kittle at your FLEX. The dude has been absurd recently, and I don’t see that slowing down against the Falcons. He’s been targeted 27 times in his past two games, and he has found the endzone in 5 of his last 6 outings. He is destroying right now, and if you have another top-end TE, make George your FLEX!
FLEX Fade of the Week:
Josh Limesand: Marquise Brown. This Ravens offense is very up and down right now, and Brown has not scored a touchdown since Week 7. For a guy that was a must-start WR earlier in the year, I’m only playing him as a boom/bust desperation play, and that’s not how I want to go into the playoffs.
D/ST
| Rank | Team | Opponent | Brighton | Limesand | Cunningham | Milaszewski | AVG |
| 1 | Miami Dolphins | vs. NYJ | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1.0 |
| 2 | Arizona Cardinals | at DET | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2.3 |
| 3 | Dallas Cowboys | at NYG | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3.0 |
| 4 | Buffalo Bills | vs. CAR | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3.8 |
| 5 | San Francisco 49ers | vs. ATL | 8 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.3 |
| 6 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | vs. NO | 5 | 11 | 5 | 9 | 7.5 |
| 7 | Green Bay Packers | at BAL | 7 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 7.8 |
| 8 | New England Patriots | at IND | 6 | 8 | 7 | 14 | 8.8 |
| 9 | Philadelphia Eagles | vs. WAS | 9 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 9.3 |
| 10 | Minnesota Vikings | at CHI | 11 | 9 | 12 | 8 | 10.0 |
| 11 | Cleveland Browns | vs. LV | 12 | 10 | 8 | NR | 11.5 |
| 12 | Los Angeles Rams | vs. SEA | 10 | 15 | NR | 7 | 12.0 |
| 13 | Jacksonville Jaguars | vs. HOU | 15 | NR | NR | 6 | 13.3 |
| 14 | Denver Broncos | vs. CIN | 13 | NR | 11 | 15 | 13.8 |
| 15 | Houston Texans | at JAC | NR | 12 | 13 | NR | 14.3 |
D/ST Start of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Miami Dolphins. Miami’s defense is the 9th highest scoring defense on the season, but they have averaged the 3rd highest fppg for fantasy defenses Week 9 (a whopping 14.4 fppg). This week, the Dolphins host a Jets squad that has surrendered the 5th highest average fppg to opposing fantasy defenses so far this season. New York has thrown more interceptions than any team in the league while also allowing the 6th most sacks and scoring the 6th fewest points. The Dolphins defense has 8 interceptions and 19 sacks since Week 9, surrendering only 11 ppg over that time frame. Miami has legitimate week-winning upside this week. The Dolphins are the top ranked defense in my Week 15 rankings.
Josh Limesand: Tennessee Titans. I really like the Titans against the Steelers this week. I think the Steelers will put up a decent amount of yards, but I think the Titans will create some turnovers, and maybe even have a fumble-return touchdown.
D/ST Fade of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Indianapolis Colts. The Colts are the 4th highest scoring D/ST on the season thus far. This week, they play host to a Patriots team that has surrendered the lowest average fppg to opposing fantasy defenses over the past 4 weeks. Over that stretch, the Pats have only turned the ball over two times in total, and they have averaged 23 ppg. The Pats are also in the bottom third of the league in terms of sacks allowed this season. I just don’t see the Colts getting many opportunities for scoring plays this week. Mac Jones and the Pats offense as a whole have been methodically moving the ball and generally playing mistake free football over the course of their win streak. The Colts did not crack the top 15 fantasy defenses in my Week 15 rankings.
Josh Limesand: New England Patriots. I have them ranked 8th because they are a good defense, but I think the Colts play generally mistake-free football. Carson Wentz has only thrown 5 INTs all season, and Jonathan Taylor has only fumbled 4 times. I don’t think the Patriots get dominated or anything, but I just don’t see them being productive. I think they have a very “meh” week fantasy-wise.
Kicker
| Rank | Player | Opponent | Brighton | Limesand | Cunningham | Milaszewski | AVG |
| 1 | Nick Folk (NE) | at IND | 1 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 2.0 |
| 2 | Harrison Butker (KC) | at LAC | 2 | 6 | 2 | 7 | 4.3 |
| 3 | Matt Gay (LAR) | vs. SEA | 4 | 8 | 5 | 2 | 4.8 |
| 4 | Matt Prater (ARI) | at DET | 3 | 1 | 7 | 9 | 5.0 |
| 5 | Justin Tucker (BAL) | vs. GB | 8 | 9 | 4 | 3 | 6.0 |
| 6 | Greg Zuerlein (DAL) | at NYG | 5 | 2 | 3 | NR | 6.5 |
| 7 | Greg Joseph (MIN) | at CHI | 12 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 7.3 |
| 8 | Robbie Gould (SF) | vs. ATL | 7 | 4 | 9 | 11 | 7.8 |
| 9 | Jason Sanders (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 9 | 3 | 12 | 12 | 9.0 |
| 10 | Chris Boswell (PIT) | vs. TEN | 11 | 13 | 10 | 5 | 9.8 |
| 11 | Ryan Succop (TB) | vs. NO | 10 | 11 | 14 | 8 | 10.8 |
| 12 | Jake Elliott (PHI) | vs. WAS | 14 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 11.3 |
| 13 | Tyler Bass (BUF) | vs. CAR | 6 | 12 | 15 | NR | 12.3 |
| 14 | Dustin Hopkins (WAS) | vs. KC | 13 | 14 | 8 | NR | 12.8 |
| 15 | Mason Crosby (GB) | at BAL | NR | NR | NR | 6 | 13.5 |
Kicker Start of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Matt Prater. Matt Prater currently sits as the 7th highest scoring kicker in fantasy football this season with an average of 8.9 fppg. However, the numbers don’t quite tell the whole story. Prater has averaged 6.3 fppg in games that Kyler Murray has not started but 9.7 fppg in games that Murray has started. The former would place him around the 27th highest scoring kicker on the year, while the latter would place him in a tie for the 4th highest scoring kicker on the year (going by avg fppg with a minimum of 9 games played). This week, Prater has a matchup with the Detroit Lions, who have allowed the highest average fppg to the kicker position thus far this season.
Josh Limesand: Jason Sanders. I think Miami will have no problem putting up points against the Jets, so even two field goals from Sanders will be enough when you combine them with at least 4 extra points. I think he’s a great play to get quality kicker production in your first playoff matchup. Not to mention, he may even be unrostered in your league.
Kicker Fade of the Week:
C.J. Brighton: Younghoe Koo. After being such a revelation last season, Younghoe Koo has been largely unproductive so far this year. However, this lack of production really doesn’t fall on Koo’s shoulders. He has the 7th highest FG% among all kickers with at least 20 attempts this season. The blame really lies more with the Atlanta offense as a whole, which, Cordarrelle Patterson aside, has been largely lackluster and inconsistent. This week, the Falcons host a 49ers squad that has allowed the 5th fewest passing yards and 6th fewest receiving yards this season. While the Niners are middle of the pack in terms of rushing yards allowed, the Falcons’ rushing attack leaves some to be desired (6th fewest team rushing yards this season). This inconsistent Atlanta offense may not be able to put Koo in scoring position often enough to make him worth starting this week.
Josh Limesand: Zane Gonzalez. I’m not sure even Carolina knows what they are going to do on offense this week. Further, the Bills need a win. I don’t see the Panthers making any sort of progress down the field, and so the opportunities just won’t be there for Zane.
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