Fantasy Football Playoffs: Key Players to Start and Sit in Week 15

As the fantasy football playoffs approach, roster decisions become critical. Managers often find themselves attached to star players based on past performances or their draft positions. However, emotional ties can lead to poor decision-making, particularly in high-stakes matchups. With many teams facing elimination, it is essential to evaluate player statistics and trends carefully.

Players to Consider Sitting in Week 15

In Week 15, certain well-known players may not be delivering the expected performance and could be candidates for the bench. Here are three players to consider sitting, along with potential replacements.

Justin Jefferson, wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings, has had a disappointing stretch lately. In a 31-0 victory against the Washington Commanders in Week 14, he managed only 3.1 points, catching two of four targets for a mere 11 yards. This marks a continuation of a concerning trend, as Jefferson has scored fewer than ten points in four of his last five games. Despite a favorable matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, his recent performance raises questions about his reliability. Managers might consider alternatives such as Jameson Williams or Jaylen Waddle, who offer a higher ceiling, or Wan’Dale Robinson and Zay Flowers, who can provide a safer floor.

Another player under scrutiny is Emeka Egbuka of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Though Egbuka showed promise earlier in the season, scoring at least 16 points in three of his first five games, he has struggled since suffering a hamstring injury in Week 6. Averaging just 8.9 points per game and failing to score more than ten points in his last four games signals a dip in form. Despite receiving consistent targets, with at least eight in each of his past four games, the combination of missed opportunities and a struggling quarterback, Baker Mayfield, makes him a risky start. Alternatives like Christian Watson and Jordan Addison could offer better upside.

The situation for Xavier Worthy of the Kansas City Chiefs is similarly concerning. With fewer than ten points in five of his last seven games and no 20-point outings this season, Worthy has not been able to secure a reliable role in the Chiefs’ offense. With star players like Travis Kelce and Rashee Rice commanding significant targets, Worthy’s lack of production makes him a candidate for the bench. Managers may look towards options such as Romeo Doubs or Rashid Shaheed for more dependable performances.

Promising Players to Start in Week 15

While some stars are underperforming, other players are stepping up and could be valuable additions to fantasy lineups this week.

Trevor Lawrence, quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars, is on a hot streak. He has scored 17 or more points in three consecutive games, throwing multiple touchdown passes in each matchup. Additionally, Lawrence has been effective in the running game, contributing at least three carries per game during that stretch. Facing a New York Jets defense that allows an average of 18.8 points per game to opposing quarterbacks, Lawrence is a strong candidate for a starting spot in 12-team leagues.

For running backs, managers should keep an eye on Devin Neal of the New Orleans Saints. His Week 15 potential is contingent on the health of star running back Alvin Kamara, who is dealing with a knee issue. If Kamara is sidelined, Neal, who logged 20 touches in a recent win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, could be a solid flex option. Despite averaging only 3.7 yards per carry, his ability to find the end zone makes him a worthwhile consideration.

Lastly, Jakobi Meyers, now with the Jaguars after a stint with the Raiders, has been a reliable target. With rising target volume and consistent touchdown receptions in recent games, Meyers has averaged 12.3 points over the last three outings. Given his rapport with Lawrence, he stands out as a smart choice for managers seeking a dependable option in the flex spot.

As the fantasy football playoffs progress, making informed decisions based on player performance rather than name recognition is essential. The stakes are high, and every point counts.