In Week 13 of fantasy football, Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em offers strategic advice for managers facing difficult roster decisions. While obvious picks like Ja’Marr Chase are easy calls, the focus here is on more nuanced matchups. If you’re unsure about a player, be sure to consult the latest NFL Fantasy lineup rankings for additional guidance.
Start ‘Em
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks at New York Jets)
Smith-Njigba has emerged as one of Seattle’s top receivers, even challenging DK Metcalf for the role. In his last three games, he’s recorded 367 yards, the second-highest in franchise history for a three-game span. His success against man coverage, where he ranks among the NFL’s top 10, should allow him to shine against the Jets, who employ man coverage at the fourth-highest rate. The Jets also struggle against slot receivers, which bodes well for Smith-Njigba.
Jauan Jennings (San Francisco 49ers at Buffalo Bills)
Jennings led the 49ers in targets last week, even with Brock Purdy sidelined. With Purdy potentially returning, Jennings has been productive in games without key players like Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, averaging 29.3 fantasy points per game. Against Buffalo, a defense known for using split safety and zone coverage, Jennings’ skills make him a must-start, especially with his success in these coverage schemes.
Brian Thomas Jr. (Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans)
After a slight dip in performance, Thomas bounced back with a strong game in Week 11. This week, he faces a Texans defense that has given up the fourth-most yards and touchdowns to wide receivers since Week 8. Thomas’ strength against zone coverage makes him a valuable pick, and with the Jaguars often playing catch-up, Thomas could see plenty of action.
Darnell Mooney (Atlanta Falcons vs. Los Angeles Chargers)
Mooney has had a reliable season despite a disappointing performance before the bye. He faces a Chargers defense allowing the second-most yards and touchdowns to receivers. Mooney excels against split safety and zone coverage, making him a solid option for Week 13.
Sit ‘Em
Marvin Harrison Jr. (Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings)
Harrison has been inconsistent recently, scoring under eight fantasy points in five of his last seven games. The Vikings play split safety coverage, a system that has caused issues for Kyler Murray, making this matchup risky for Harrison.
DeAndre Hopkins (Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders)
Hopkins has struggled since his two-touchdown performance in Week 9, averaging just five targets and 40 yards per game. The Raiders’ defense has limited yards to wide receivers, especially those running routes on the perimeter, where Hopkins primarily plays.
Jaylen Waddle (Miami Dolphins at Green Bay Packers)
Though Waddle had a breakout game in Week 12, this week’s matchup against a Packers defense that allows the fewest yards to wide receivers since Week 8 is tough. Additionally, cold weather in Green Bay and Miami’s struggles in outdoor games make Waddle a risky start.
Diontae Johnson (Baltimore Ravens vs. Philadelphia Eagles)
Johnson has been largely ineffective with the Ravens, playing just eight percent of offensive snaps in Week 12. With minimal opportunities and a declining role, he should not be in your lineup this week against the Eagles.
For more options, consider starting Denver’s Courtland Sutton, Pittsburgh’s George Pickens, or Philadelphia’s DeVonta Smith, all of whom are strong plays in Week 13.
