A few extra primetime games mean the slate is not as complete for DFS. That said, many matchups have large spreads and high-point totals. Injuries have opened the door for some cheaper players to shine. These are Week 16 DFS Sleepers.
*All prices are based on a $60,000 budget listed on FanDuel.
Week 16 DFS Sleepers
Quarterback
Drake Maye
After a promising start, the New England Patriots have fallen back down to earth. They’ve lost four games in a row, but it hasn’t been due to Drake Maye. The rookie has impressed despite the Pats’ lack of weapons and competent offensive line.
Fantasy-wise, Maye’s rushing ability gives him a solid floor. He’s scored at least 11 fantasy points in every game he’s started this season. What makes Maye an intriguing option this week is the fact that the Patriots are 14-point underdogs. They will likely play from behind, which will force Maye to pass the ball a lot to keep them in the game.
It’s been a common occurrence with quarterbacks like Jameis Winston, who has put up a few monster fantasy performances. If there was ever a week for Maye to attempt 50 passes, it’s this week, and he’s good value at $6,800.
Running back
Tyjae Spears
Last season, Tyjae Spears was a nice foil to Derrick Henry in the Tennessee Titans‘ backfield. Spears handled most of the receiving work in contrast to Henry’s power running. Spears was slated for a more prominent role this season, but Tony Pollard had other ideas. Pollard has been the lead back all season, and Spears has fought through a few injuries.
However, Pollard is questionable to play this week with an ankle injury. He left the game last week, and Spears scored a season-high 27.2 fantasy points, primarily due to catching six passes for 87 yards and a touchdown. If Pollard can’t go, Spears becomes a smash start against a Colts defense allowing 18 fantasy points per game to running backs.
Even if Pollard plays, he could be limited. Spears is definitely worth a shot at $5,900.
Wide Receiver
Jalen Coker
It’s been a tough season for the Carolina Panthers, but one bright spot has been Jalen Coker. The undrafted rookie has stepped up when asked to in the offense. He showed off his speed last week with an 83-yard touchdown against Dallas. The Panthers are short-handed at receiver. Xavier Legette is out, and David Moore is questionable with a concussion.
Coker himself is questionable with a quad injury, but he practiced in a limited fashion on Thursday and Friday. That suggests he’s more likely to play than not, and he will see an expanded role. Bryce Young has also been more comfortable when playing at home, and Coker is one of his favorite targets.
Coker’s $5,200 price is exceptionally cheap in a week that many of the top receivers have excellent matchups. Picking up a Ja’Marr Chase or Puka Nacua and balancing it out with Coker is a solid plan.
Tight End
Brenton Strange
Evan Engram is out for the season with a torn labrum. Brenton Strange has been a solid tight end option in his absence. Last week, Strange saw a colossal 12 targets and caught 11 of them for 73 yards. Christian Kirk is also missing, so Brian Thomas Jr is the only reliable target for the Jags.
Mac Jones targeting Strange 12 times suggests that he trusts him. They face a Raiders team that allows the fourth most fantasy points to tight ends and has struggled all season in general. Strange is only $5,200, and last week, he showed that he has the upside to be a TE1 in the Jaguars’ current situation.
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