Don’t look now, but we’re rapidly approaching the midway point of the 2026-27 NFL regular season. As is always the case, injuries and underperformance are an unfortunate reality for fantasy managers. Factor in several key players enjoying their bye weeks, and it’s never been more difficult to field a quality starting lineup. Fortunately, there are options. Week 7’s slate offers up several intriguing, lesser-known names with high upside.
Which under the radar players are worth targeting? Here are three sleepers that could help you win a DraftKings DFS or season-long fantasy matchup.
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Fantasy Football Week 7 Sleepers: Best Players to Start
QB J.J. McCarthy, New York Giants at HOU ($4,800)
On paper, it’s fair to express some skepticism when it comes to this pick. After all, J.J. McCarthy’s tenure with the Vikings was disastrous. It’s not often you see a former first round pick get traded within three years for a mere fifth rounder. The Giants are hoping to resurrect the Michigan alum’s career, and there’s plenty of available snaps at quarterback with Jaxson Dart (knee) injured. Fellow backup Jameis Winston ($4,800) struggled mightily last Sunday against New Orleans, prompting New York to make a mid-game switch at the position. McCarthy put together an impressive second half, throwing for 243 yards, a touchdown and one interception in a losing effort. As a result, he’ll get the nod as a starter this week in Houston.
A date with the Texans, one of football’s most talented defensive units, doesn’t inspire much confidence. However, this group hasn’t been as impressive this season. Houston is giving up the 13th-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. That’s due in part to its secondary, allowing the league’s 15th-most yards per pass attempt (6.8). As 10.5-point favorites, there’s a decent chance the Texans possess a lead during the second half. If that occurs, the Giants may need to go pass heavy down the stretch. McCarthy is mobile, allowing New York to replicate its offensive scheme with Dart under center. Winston’s lack of speed has hampered the Giants over the past month. For a low cost flier at QB, Nine makes some sense this week.
WR Brandin Cooks, San Francisco 49ers at ATL ($4,200)
If you didn’t realize Brandin Cooks was with the 49ers, you’d be forgiven. The longtime pro has bounced around the league, making a pit stop with his fifth franchise in five years. Once viewed as little more than a depth piece, injuries have vaulted the wide receiver towards the top of San Francisco’s depth chart. Mike Evans (Achilles) and Deebo Samuel (hamstring) have been ruled out this week, while Christian Kirk (calf) and Demarcus Robinson (ankle) are questionable. Outside of tight end George Kittle ($5,700), there aren’t many proven pass catchers on the active roster.
In spite of their injuries, the undefeated 49ers should find success on offense this weekend. The Falcons aren’t the most intimidating defense, especially on the outside. They’ve allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers this season. Cooks logged 52% of San Francisco’s offensive snaps on Monday vs. the Commanders. There’s no reason to think he won’t see an increase in playing time with the current state of this roster. Quarterback Brock Purdy ($6,600) will likely value having a sure-handed veteran on pivotal passing downs as well. At $4,200, Cooks could emerge as a bargain against Atlanta.
TE Tyler Higbee, Los Angeles Rams at LV ($3,500)
We gave Tyler Higbee a shot last weekend, and the results weren’t great (5.2 FPTS). However, much has changed over the past week for Los Angeles. Davante Adams (hamstring) has been ruled out while Puka Nacua (calf) is questionable for Week 7’s game in Las Vegas. That leaves this top-heavy passing game potentially without its two top targets. Assuming Nacua sits, Konata Mumpfield ($3,200) and Jordan Whittington ($3,000) are the most expensive wideouts for the Rams on Sunday. Those prices reflect the lack of experience both players have with quarterback Matthew Stafford ($6,400).
One member of Sean McVay’s roster that has earned some trust is Higbee. The 11th-year pro knows this offense well, and it’s reflected in his playing time. He’s led all LA tight ends in playing time over the past four weeks, including a season-high 83% of snaps last week vs. Arizona. Despite inconsistent yardage, the veteran has remained involved on offense over the past month. He’s snagged at least four receptions in each of his previous four outings. To make things even more enticing, the Raiders are allowing the NFL’s eighth-most fantasy points to tight ends. Given his relatively cheap cost, Higbee is worth consideration.
