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We did it, we made it to the fantasy football playoffs! It’s a glorious and joyful time, but it doesn’t come without problems. Every player and their mamas seem to be on the COVID-19 list for Week 15. As of right now, over 70 players are on the list and that number will probably grow. Some of the players who have been added this week may affect your fantasy lineups:
- RB – Every Dolphins running back in world history
- WR – Odell Beckham, Jarvis Landry, Kadarius Toney
- TE – Austin Hooper
When you put this together with the fact that we’re already dealing with injuries, it can be brutal. You can, however, overcome it, this is all a part of fantasy football. This is the time where it’s survival of the fittest and you must thrive. Getting the most out of your flex spot is never more important than in the fantasy playoffs. Last week, players like Chase Claypool (giggle), Tee Higgins, Cole Beasley and Devonta Freeman provided us with solid production. With the uncertainty of a lot of players heading into Week 15, we have to dig even deeper.
Michael Pittman, WR, Colts
Why depend on Pittman against the vaunted Patriots defense you ask? Well, it’s simple, I’m going off of the Bill Belichick way of life and that’s to take away what’s best for the other team. In this case, it’s Jonathan Taylor. The Patriots currently have the best defense in fantasy football. There may not be many points scored in this game but that doesn’t mean Pittman won’t get any opportunities to catch some passes. Let’s give him his respect too. Pittman is currently a WR17 in PPR formats. He’s no slouch.
Chase Edmonds, RB, Cardinals
Many of us thought Edmonds would return in Week 14. He did not, and James Conner continued his comeback season as the current RB6. Since Edmonds’ injury, Conner established himself as the top back in Arizona and an elite fantasy option. The potential return of Edmonds, however, does provide some flex appeal. Edmonds will face the Lions, who have the second-worst defense against running backs in fantasy. Most will forget, but prior to his injury, Edmonds was RB17 through the first eight weeks of the season. Conner, on the other hand, was RB21 in that same span. The Cardinals would like to have both backs down the stretch for a playoff push, so Edmonds’ return is vital. As long as he has a role in the Cards offense, he’s a solid flex play.
Anybody who is playing, RB, Dolphins
This is a tough one, but at the same time, it’s not. The Dolphins get a nice matchup at home against the Jets who have the WORST defense against running backs in fantasy! Myles Gaskin, Salvon Ahmed and Phillip Lindsay have all found themselves on the COVID-19 list. The good news is, all three are vaccinated so they all have a chance to play in Week 15. If none are available the Dolphins have tried out several backs including Duke Johnson, and it is possible Malcolm Brown returns this week. In any event, if there is one main guy, you’re going to want to pick them up and insert him unless your roster is stout enough. Either way, they’re facing the Jets. Take advantage.
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D’Onta Foreman, RB, Titans
Foreman has begun wearing the costume of the Titans RB1 (until the hopeful return of Derrick Henry). In Week 13 he was able to rack up 19 carries and 109 yards. He followed that up with 13 carries for (only) 47 yards but with a touchdown. In Week 15, Foreman will face a Steelers defense that is seventh-worst against running backs in fantasy. Dalvin Cook had 2021’s best rushing game against the Steelers in Week 14 with 27 carries, 205 yards and two touchdowns. The week prior, Lamar Jackson and Devonta Freeman combined for over 100 yards rushing against this unit. While I don’t expect a 200-yard day from Foreman, he’s in a nice position to be productive against a team who’s more name than game.
Van Jefferson, WR, Rams
This kid is starting to come on strong. Jefferson has scored a touchdown and averaged almost seven targets in the past three games. Jefferson may have a role of more importance now that Odell Beckham has landed on the COVID-19 list. He’ll get a matchup against the Seahawks, who have the seventh-best defense against receivers in fantasy, but it’s mainly because their run defense isn’t as stout. The Rams are going to play their game no matter what. Look for Jefferson to be a major factor.
AJ Dillon, RB, Packers
Dillon is the leading rusher for the Packers. Not Aaron Jones. Dillon has been getting a lot more run as of late and he’s seizing the opportunities. In the past four games, he’s averaged 16.75 carries, 64.75 rushing yards, 4.25 targets/catches and 42.75 receiving yards a game. That is elite usage considering he’s splitting time with one of the better backs in fantasy football. No matter how good the Ravens are against the run, the team itself is decimated with injuries. You can never count the Ravens out, but Dillon is a massive man to have to tackle in cold weather. Look for him to help push your fantasy teams onto the next round of the playoffs.
