As the NFL season progresses, fantasy football managers often face challenges due to injuries, bye weeks, and unforeseen developments. In response, Matt Bowen provides valuable insights for Week 11, focusing on players who can bolster fantasy lineups, particularly in deeper leagues. This week’s recommendations include quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and a tight end, all of whom are rostered in fewer than 50% of ESPN leagues.
Quarterback Options
Joe Flacco of the Cincinnati Bengals, currently rostered in just 39.3% of leagues, stands out as a solid option against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In their previous encounter during Week 7, Flacco delivered an impressive performance, amassing 25.98 points with 342 passing yards and three touchdowns. His ability to accumulate points when the Bengals are chasing late in games has been evident, as he has maintained a scoring average of at least 24 points over his last three starts.
Another quarterback to consider is Marcus Mariota from the Washington Commanders, who is only 14.7% rostered. Mariota scored 18.72 points in a loss to the Detroit Lions last week, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities by throwing for two touchdowns and adding 22 rushing yards. With a matchup against a Miami Dolphins defense that ranks in the bottom ten against quarterbacks, he presents a potential opportunity for fantasy points.
For those seeking a riskier play, J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings, rostered at 48.5%, faces the Chicago Bears. While his recent performance has raised concerns due to a 50.7% completion rate and three interceptions, his rushing ability and previous success against the Bears—where he scored 22.22 points in Week 1—could make him a valuable asset.
Wide Receivers and Running Backs
In the wide receiver category, Michael Wilson of the Arizona Cardinals, with a roster percentage of 8.7%, is stepping into a more significant role due to Marvin Harrison Jr.’s absence. Wilson’s speed and route-running ability make him a compelling choice, especially as he averages 6.1 targets per game this season.
Also noteworthy is Tez Johnson of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who is 35.4% rostered. With Chris Godwin Jr. sidelined, Johnson recorded a career-high 20.2 points last week, catching four passes for 42 yards and two touchdowns. His recent performances indicate he has significant scoring potential against the Buffalo Bills.
Another player to consider is Christian Watson from the Green Bay Packers, rostered at 26.7%. Watson is a deep threat, averaging 23.5 yards per catch over his last three games. While his volume is lower, he can be a boom-or-bust option against a New York Giants defense that has struggled against wide receivers.
In the running back segment, Devin Singletary of the New York Giants is 33.0% rostered. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the team with a new interim head coach, Singletary’s ability to contribute in the passing game—recording three receptions for 53 yards—makes him a candidate for deeper leagues.
Lastly, Tyjae Spears of the Tennessee Titans, with a roster percentage of 37.3%, faces a challenging matchup against the Houston Texans. Nevertheless, his consistent involvement in the passing game and recent volume—having at least three receptions in his last four games—suggests he could provide value.
Tight End and Defense
In the tight end category, Dalton Schultz of the Houston Texans, currently rostered at 47.2%, offers potential TE1 upside. Although he is dealing with a shoulder injury, he scored 18.3 points in his last outing against the Jacksonville Jaguars. If cleared to play, his recent production makes him a player to watch.
Finally, the Dallas Cowboys defense, rostered in 28.5% of leagues, is set to face the Las Vegas Raiders this week. The Cowboys have shown strong performances, scoring 13 or more points in two of their last three games. With the Raiders struggling offensively, averaging only 15.4 points per game, this matchup presents an opportunity for the Cowboys to capitalize on turnovers.
As the fantasy football landscape shifts heading into Week 11, these players could provide the boosts many teams need to remain competitive.
