The NFL has plunged fantasy football managers into another “bye-mageddon,” with six teams—Broncos, Colts, Commanders, Patriots, Ravens, and Texans—on a bye in Week 14. This timing is especially frustrating as the fantasy playoffs are just around the corner. Key players like Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, Joe Mixon, and Jonathan Taylor are sidelined, leaving managers scrambling to fill gaps, particularly at quarterback and running back.
The rankings for Week 14 PPR leagues offer some intriguing movements. For quarterbacks, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, and Joe Burrow occupy the top three spots, while notable risers include Sam Darnold, who benefits from a favorable matchup. At running back, Saquon Barkley leads the rankings, followed by Alvin Kamara and Bijan Robinson. Rising stars like De’Von Achane and Chase Brown also find themselves in the top five, reflecting their potential to deliver in pivotal games.
Wide receiver rankings feature Ja’Marr Chase at the helm, with A.J. Brown, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Justin Jefferson close behind. Justin Jefferson’s return from injury is noteworthy, adding much-needed firepower for fantasy teams. Meanwhile, players like Tee Higgins see a drop, possibly due to challenging matchups or injury concerns.
Tight ends also showcase some shifts, with Brock Bowers topping the list, closely followed by Trey McBride and Travis Kelce. Surprisingly, Jonnu Smith rises to fourth, reflecting increased usage or a favorable matchup against the Jets.
Flex rankings emphasize versatility, combining running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends. Saquon Barkley and Ja’Marr Chase lead, showcasing their consistent dominance. Alvin Kamara and Bijan Robinson remain pivotal assets, especially with their explosive playmaking ability. Other notable flex options include Kyren Williams, James Cook, and A.J. Brown, who promise strong performances in critical matchups.
Special teams and defenses highlight the Vikings, Steelers, and Eagles as top choices for managers looking to exploit weak opposing offenses. Kickers like Chris Boswell and Chase McLaughlin top their respective rankings, thanks to their consistent accuracy and scoring opportunities.
The article encourages managers to refer to the detailed rankings and supplementary “Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em” columns for deeper insights. As the fantasy playoffs approach, strategic decisions will be crucial, making such resources indispensable for competitive managers.
