It all comes down to this: the final week of the fantasy football regular season. For those that have earned a bye week, Sunday’s events are of little consequence. However, that’s not the case for most managers. Whether its seeding or a spot in the playoffs, this weekend could make or break championship hopes.
Which under the radar names are worth targeting? Here are three sleepers that could help you win a DraftKings DFS or season-long fantasy matchup.
Set your fantasy football lineups here: NFL $2.5M Fantasy Football Millionaire [$1M to 1st]
Week 14 Fantasy Football Sleepers
RB Chris Rodriguez Jr., Washington Commanders ($4,700)
There’s a glimmer of hope in Washington, as starting quarterback Jayden Daniels ($6,000) has been cleared to return. Unfortunately, the elbow injury he suffered last month has all but ended any hopes of contention for the Commanders. Regardless, this remains a dangerous offense when the QB is on the field. That boosts potential fantasy production for almost every member of the roster, including Chris Rodriguez Jr. Over Washington’s last two games, CRJ has garnered the most snaps of any running back.
With that being said, leading a mediocre backfield hasn’t led to domination for Rodriguez Jr. The 25-year-old’s production is almost entirely dependent on finding the end zone. That worked out last week vs. Denver, when he gained 41 rushing yards and a touchdown on 11 carries. There should be more red zone opportunities this weekend with Daniels leading the offense. It helps that Sunday’s opponent, the Vikings, have looked awful recently. If the Commanders race out to an early lead, expect a run-heavy approach from Dan Quinn. That makes Rodriguez Jr., as Washington’s RB1, a potential steal.
RB Ollie Gordon II, Miami Dolphins ($4,300)
This summer, Ollie Gordon II was seen as a fantasy football sleeper. Unfortunately, an inconsistent Miami offense has prevented the rookie from truly breaking out. Still, the Texas A&M alum has shown flashes of greatness over the past few months. In three different games, Gordon has managed to record double-digit fantasy points. That doesn’t mean much, but it does show that the youngster can contribute in a supporting role.
Part of the explanation for Gordon’s disappointing season is that the Dolphins haven’t held many leads. There’s a good chance that won’t be the case on Sunday. Despite their win last Sunday, the Jets remain one of football’s worst teams. On the ground, New York has surrendered the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs. Given how difficult it is to find cheap RBs, Gordon offers enticing upside at a low price.
WR Luther Burden III, Chicago Bears ($3,800)
Rome Odunze (foot) won’t suit up on Sunday. That’s a major blow for the Bears, who’ll need every weapon possible going into a pivotal matchup with the Packers. As a result, Luther Burden III is now poised for a much bigger role. Chicago’s deep wide receiver room has prevented the rookie from making much of an impact this season. Through 11 games, he’s snagged 26 catches for 328 yards and a touchdown. Still, Burden has notched at least three receptions in each of his last four games.
Success in the passing game won’t come easy against Green Bay, one of the NFL’s best defenses. Regardless, Odunze’s absence is too notable to ignore. The Packers have allowed the 13th-fewest fantasy points to opposing wide receivers, certainly not enough to scare off managers. Burden’s recent success has come in games Chicago has won. Against an elite NFC North foe, there’s a chance the Bears find themselves trailing late. If that occurs, quarterback Caleb Williams ($5,600) should throw the ball more than usual. No matter what the game script looks like, Burden should remain heavily involved on offense.
