It is time to make those tough lineup decisions for Week 7 of the fantasy football season.
Below you’ll find positional rankings, player analysis, betting totals, and implied points for every game on the slate.
Find all of our positional rankings here.
Fantasy Football Rankings & Tiers – Week 7
Last updated: 11pm, Wednesday, October 19th. Please refer to our Rankings page for updates!
Quarterback
| Tier | Rank | Player | Opp | Total | Spread | Implied Points | PPG |
| 1 | QB1 | Lamar Jackson | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 25.4 |
| 1 | QB2 | Patrick Mahomes II | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 24.5 |
| 2 | QB3 | Joe Burrow | vs ATL | 47.5 | -6.5 | 27.00 | 22.1 |
| 2 | QB4 | Justin Herbert | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 17.7 |
| 2 | QB5 | Kyler Murray | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 19.7 |
| 3 | QB6 | Tom Brady | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 15.7 |
| 3 | QB7 | Dak Prescott | vs DET | 49.0 | -6.5 | 27.75 | 5.5 |
| 3 | QB8 | Geno Smith | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 18.8 |
| 3 | QB9 | Derek Carr | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 17.2 |
| 4 | QB10 | Tua Tagovailoa | vs PIT | 44.5 | -7.5 | 26.00 | 17.6 |
| 4 | QB11 | Jared Goff | at DAL | 49.0 | 6.5 | 21.25 | 19.7 |
| 4 | QB12 | Jimmy Garoppolo | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 15.4 |
| 4 | QB13 | Trevor Lawrence | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 17.0 |
| 4 | QB14 | Aaron Rodgers | at WAS | 41.5 | -4.5 | 23.00 | 14.0 |
| 4 | QB15 | Marcus Mariota | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 16.5 |
| 5 | QB16 | Matt Ryan | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 15.1 |
| 5 | QB17 | Russell Wilson | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 15.1 |
| 5 | QB18 | Daniel Jones | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 15.4 |
| 5 | QB19 | Jacoby Brissett | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 14.6 |
| 5 | QB20 | Ryan Tannehill | vs IND | 42.0 | -2.5 | 22.25 | 13.6 |
| 5 | QB21 | Justin Fields | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 13.0 |
| 5 | QB22 | Zach Wilson | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 13.0 |
| 5 | QB23 | Bailey Zappe | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 11.5 |
| 5 | QB24 | Davis Mills | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 11.2 |
| 6 | QB25 | Taylor Heinicke | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 0.0 |
| 6 | QB26 | Kenny Pickett | at MIA | 44.5 | 7.5 | 18.50 | 12.2 |
| 6 | QB27 | Andy Dalton | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 11.7 |
| 6 | QB28 | PJ Walker | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 2.4 |
Tier 2 – Dak Prescott
Prescott will return to action against a Lions' defense with the second-worst PFF coverage grade in the NFL (44.5). Opposing QBs are averaging 271 yards and 1.6 passing TDs per game in non-overtime play against the Lions.
The Cowboys leaned into the run without Prescott – they run the eighth-most in neutral game scripts (44%). Dallas could continue to favor a balanced approach this weekend because Detroit allows the most non-overtime rushing yards per game on the ground (168). However, the Lions could push Dallas to continue scoring – they convert the third-most drives into TDs in the NFL (31%).
The matchup offers the second-highest implied point total on the slate, with Dallas favored by seven points at home. Despite running the ball slightly above expectation, the Cowboys still operate with pace. They rank eighth in average play clock remaining in neutral situations. The Lions rank second in plays per minute.
This game has an opportunity to provide a ton of offense with Michael Gallup healthy for Dallas and Amon-Ra St. Brown and D’Andre Swift looking healthy for the Lions.
Prescott is a mid-range QB1 this weekend, and this game provides a lot of stack options for DFS contests.
Additional QB Notes & Movers:
- Tier 4 – Tua Tagovailoa will return to action this weekend. The Dolphins are seven-point favorites and supply a top-six implied point total. They face the Steelers, who allow the fifth-most non-overtime yards via the passing game. Tagovailoa is a low-end QB1 option if you are without Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, or Kirk Cousins.
- Tier 4 – Jimmy Garoppolo and the 49ers will need to score points in a home game against the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes this weekend. The 49ers could be without several key defensive starters – which led to a trailing game script last weekend against Atlanta. Jimmy G has the weapons to put up fantasy points, and the Chiefs allow the second most non-overtime passing points per game (23.8). Garoppolo is a low-end QB1.
- Tier 5 – Matt Ryan doesn’t draw a great game environment with a 43.5 total against the Titans. However, Tennessee has been scorched by opposing passing for 24.3 fantasy points per game – the most in the NFL. Ryan is a mid-range QB2 with some upside if the game pushes beyond the current expectations of Vegas.
Running back
| Tier | Rank | Player | Opp | Total | Spread | Implied Points | PPG |
| 1 | RB1 | Austin Ekeler | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 23.0 |
| 1 | RB2 | Saquon Barkley | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 20.7 |
| 2 | RB3 | Leonard Fournette | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 18.9 |
| 2 | RB4 | Nick Chubb | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 19.8 |
| 2 | RB5 | Alvin Kamara | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 14.2 |
| 2 | RB6 | Jonathan Taylor | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 12.6 |
| 2 | RB7 | Derrick Henry | vs IND | 42.0 | -2.5 | 22.25 | 18.6 |
| 2 | RB8 | Josh Jacobs | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 19.4 |
| 2 | RB9 | D'Andre Swift | at DAL | 49.0 | 6.5 | 21.25 | 16.9 |
| 2 | RB10 | Joe Mixon | vs ATL | 47.5 | -6.5 | 27.00 | 14.3 |
| 3 | RB11 | Breece Hall | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 17.0 |
| 3 | RB12 | Rhamondre Stevenson | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 14.7 |
| 3 | RB13 | Kenneth Walker III | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 9.4 |
| 3 | RB14 | Aaron Jones | at WAS | 41.5 | -4.5 | 23.00 | 13.4 |
| 3 | RB15 | Dameon Pierce | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 15.6 |
| 3 | RB16 | David Montgomery | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 10.4 |
| 3 | RB17 | Eno Benjamin | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 8.5 |
| 4 | RB18 | Ezekiel Elliott | vs DET | 49.0 | -6.5 | 27.75 | 10.0 |
| 4 | RB19 | Najee Harris | at MIA | 44.5 | 7.5 | 18.50 | 10.8 |
| 4 | RB20 | Damien Harris | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 10.9 |
| 4 | RB21 | Christian McCaffrey | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 19.7 |
| 4 | RB22 | Travis Etienne Jr. | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 9.6 |
| 4 | RB23 | Clyde Edwards-Helaire | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 14.2 |
| 4 | RB24 | Raheem Mostert | vs PIT | 44.5 | -7.5 | 26.00 | 8.6 |
| 4 | RB25 | Kareem Hunt | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 11.0 |
| 4 | RB26 | AJ Dillon | at WAS | 41.5 | -4.5 | 23.00 | 9.3 |
| 4 | RB27 | Tony Pollard | vs DET | 49.0 | -6.5 | 27.75 | 9.7 |
| 4 | RB28 | James Robinson | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 11.9 |
| 4 | RB29 | Melvin Gordon III | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 7.2 |
| 4 | RB30 | Brian Robinson Jr. | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 7.1 |
| 5 | RB31 | Jeff Wilson Jr. | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 10.5 |
| 5 | RB32 | Kenyan Drake | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 7.5 |
| 5 | RB33 | Michael Carter | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 10.1 |
| 5 | RB34 | Jamaal Williams | at DAL | 49.0 | 6.5 | 21.25 | 15.4 |
| 5 | RB35 | Khalil Herbert | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 11.2 |
| 6 | RB36 | Tyler Allgeier | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 5.6 |
| 6 | RB37 | Justice Hill | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 4.6 |
| 6 | RB38 | Rachaad White | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 5.2 |
| 6 | RB39 | J.D. McKissic | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 8.4 |
| 6 | RB40 | Antonio Gibson | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 11.3 |
| 6 | RB41 | Jerick McKinnon | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 6.0 |
| 6 | RB42 | Nyheim Hines | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 6.2 |
| 6 | RB43 | Latavius Murray | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 7.0 |
| 6 | RB44 | Caleb Huntley | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 5.3 |
| 6 | RB45 | Sony Michel | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 3.5 |
| 6 | RB46 | Chase Edmonds | vs PIT | 44.5 | -7.5 | 26.00 | 7.8 |
| 6 | RB47 | Mike Boone | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 3.6 |
| 6 | RB48 | Dontrell Hilliard | vs IND | 42.0 | -2.5 | 22.25 | 11.4 |
| 6 | RB49 | Rex Burkhead | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 8.3 |
| 6 | RB50 | Mark Ingram II | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 5.5 |
| 7 | RB51 | Samaje Perine | vs ATL | 47.5 | -6.5 | 27.00 | 6.0 |
| 7 | RB52 | Jaylen Warren | at MIA | 44.5 | 7.5 | 18.50 | 3.5 |
| 7 | RB53 | DeeJay Dallas | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 1.2 |
| 7 | RB54 | Isiah Pacheco | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 4.0 |
| 7 | RB55 | Matt Breida | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 2.0 |
| 7 | RB56 | Kyle Juszczyk | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 4.5 |
| 7 | RB57 | Avery Williams | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 2.8 |
| 7 | RB58 | Keaontay Ingram | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 0.7 |
| 7 | RB59 | Brandon Bolden | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 5.6 |
| 7 | RB60 | Mike Davis | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 0.6 |
| 7 | RB61 | Tevin Coleman | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 11.0 |
| 7 | RB62 | D'Onta Foreman | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 0.7 |
| 7 | RB63 | D'Ernest Johnson | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 1.0 |
| 7 | RB64 | Pierre Strong Jr. | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 0.3 |
| 7 | RB65 | Kevin Harris | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 0.5 |
| 7 | RB66 | Zamir White | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 0.6 |
| 7 | RB67 | JaMycal Hasty | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 4.3 |
| 7 | RB68 | Isaiah Spiller | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 0.0 |
| 7 | RB69 | Chuba Hubbard | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 0.5 |
Tier 2 – Derrick Henry
Henry has eclipsed 24 fantasy points in his last three games. The Titans are finding ways to keep him at or above the 25-touch total by getting him more involved in the passing attack. The Big Dog has 12 targets for 10 receptions and 121 yards over a three-game stretch.
The Titans are 2.5-point favorites at home against a Colts team that allows 34.6 attempts per game to opponents in non-overtime play. Opposing RBs are averaging 18.1 fantasy points per game in rushing alone (eighth-most).
Look for Henry to keep his mojo going in a friendly game environment and matchup situation. He is a top-10 option with the No. 1 overall upside this weekend.
Tier 2 – Josh Jacobs
Jacobs has taken over the Raiders backfield over the last two games, where he posted two 30-plus fantasy point finishes. The veteran back has been in charge of rushing attempts all season, but over the last two weeks, he has picked up long-down-distance snaps and two-minute offense opportunities.
| Week | Snaps | Rush Att | Routes | Targets | TPRR | SDD Snaps | i5 Att | LDD Snaps | 2MIN Snaps | PPR |
| 1 | 60% | 77% | 40% | 3% | 6% | 50% | 100% | 0% | 0% | 8.3 |
| 2 | 72% | 83% | 41% | 3% | 6% | 100% | 100% | 18% | 44% | 9.1 |
| 3 | 64% | 76% | 57% | 13% | 19% | 33% | 0% | 7% | 40% | 14.7 |
| 4 | 89% | 80% | 63% | 20% | 25% | 88% | 100% | 40% | 100% | 34.4 |
| 5 | 81% | 78% | 46% | 19% | 31% | 90% | 50% | 46% | 67% | 30.3 |
| YTD | 74% | 79% | 49% | 11% | 18% | 80% | 80% | 22% | 60% | 19.4 |
He has a 17% target share over the last three games and is averaging 5.4 yards per carry on the season. Jacobs ranks in the top five in missed tackles forced per attempt (0.31) and third in average yards after contact (4.19). The former Alabama first-rounder is feeling it in 2022, and you love to see it.
The Raiders are seven-point favorites at home against a Texans unit that grades out second-worst against the run, per PFF. Opposing RBs average 21 points per game on the ground, which is the fifth-most.
Jacobs is in the SMASH of all SMASH spots with utilization, efficiency, game environment, and matchup all aligning. I currently have him three spots ahead of industry consensus, but you could make an argument for him at No. 1 overall this weekend.
Tier 3 – Rhamondre Stevenson
Stevenson operated as an every-down back over the last two contests due to an injury to Damien Harris. He is averaging 22.3 fantasy points during that span, and the utilization is ELITE.
| Week | Snaps | Rush Att | Routes | Targets | TPRR | SDD Snaps | i5 Att | LDD Snaps | 2MIN Snaps | PPR |
| 1 | 25% | 38% | 14% | 7% | 40% | 33% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 4.7 |
| 2 | 62% | 32% | 58% | 6% | 9% | 60% | 0% | 57% | 100% | 6.1 |
| 3 | 62% | 50% | 62% | 16% | 20% | 60% | 50% | 60% | 100% | 20.1 |
| 4 | 55% | 42% | 52% | 25% | 38% | 67% | 0% | 100% | 0% | 12.9 |
| 5 | 90% | 74% | 62% | 10% | 14% | 67% | 0% | 100% | 100% | 19.5 |
| 6 | 86% | 63% | 60% | 16% | 25% | 100% | 100% | 92% | 0% | 25.1 |
| YTD | 64% | 51% | 51% | 13% | 21% | 69% | 67% | 66% | 100% | 14.7 |
On Monday Night Football, Stevenson will have company with Harris removed from the injury report. The second-year back handled 41% of rushing attempts over the first four weeks with Harris – much less than his 74% and 63% marks over the last two games. Stevenson will likely keep most passing-down work, keeping his utilization profile in the high-end RB2 range.
The Patriots run the ball more than the NFL average in trailing, close, and leading game scripts and draw an amazing matchup on Monday Night Football against the Bears as eight-point favorites. Opponents are averaging an eye-popping 40.4 rushing attempts per game, excluding overtime – that is by far the most in the NFL.
Stevenson downgrades from a high-end RB1 option but remains inside the top 12 for Week 7.
Additional RB Notes & Movers:
- Tier 3 – Eno Benjamin was removed from the injury report on Wednesday after a full practice. He should start on Thursday night. James Conner is technically a game-time decision, but he isn’t likely to play after failing to practice all week. As long as Conner is out, we can expect another heavy workload for Benjamin. He didn’t come through in Week 6, but the utilization was there with an 87% snap share, 58% rush share, and 83% route participation. Benjamin is a mid-range RB2 if Conner is out.
- Tier 4 – Ezekiel Elliott played his best game in Week 6 against the Eagles. He registered an 82.8 PFF rush grade, forced four missed tackles, and delivered three 10-plus-yard carries. The Cowboys have a juicy matchup against a Lions team giving up 28 fantasy points per game via the run. Elliott climbs out of RB3 purgatory with the Cowboys as seven-point favorites and the No. 2 implied points. Zeke is a mid-range RB2.
- Tier 4 – Damien Harris practiced in full on Friday and was removed from the injury report. The fourth-year RB handled 49% of the Patriots' rushing attempts over the first four games before injuring his hamstring in Week 5. We should anticipate a similar role on Monday, with the Patriots favored by eight points against a Bears defense that allows the most non-overtime rushing attempts per game (40.4). Harris should be good for 14 to 16 attempts and 60 to 70 yards with a shot at a TD. Harris is a low-end RB2.
- Tier 4 – Christian McCaffrey is trending toward playing on Sunday, but his utilization could be dramatically restricted due to a limited understanding of the playbook. Head coach Kyle Shanahan eluded to the possibility of some designed red zone looks, which would give CMC a chance to come through for fantasy managers with a TD. McCaffrey falls into low-end RB2 territory.
- Tier 4 – Kareem Hunt could not post big fantasy numbers in Week 6, but his utilization was there in a trailing script. The Browns are 6.5-point dogs this weekend against the Ravens, and Hunt is due for a big game. Hunt remains an RB3 based on utilization and talent profile.
- Tier 4 – Melvin Gordon III was named the starter by Nathaniel Hacket on Wednesday after a heart-to-heart conversation. Gordon is a better back than Latavius Murray and should handle most of the early-down work. However, this is still a dreaded three-way backfield in an offense that can’t score points. That keeps Gordon in the high-end RB3 range for Week 6.
- Tier 5 – Jeff Wilson Jr. is in a fragile position with the arrival of Christian McCaffrey. He should still lead the team in carries this weekend, but he was already a downgrade due to the potential for a trailing game script against the Chiefs. McCaffrey could steal looks inside the 20-yard line, which could turn Wilson into a 10-12 touch player without any receptions or chances to score. Wilson is a mid-range RB3 in Week 7.
- Tier 5 – Khalil Herbert has outdueled David Montgomery in every rushing-efficiency metric, and head coach Matt Eberflus said the team would use a hot-hand approach moving forward. That change means we could see the occasional blowup game from Herbert. Herbert is a boom-bust RB3 in Week 7 on Monday Night against the Patriots.
Wide Receiver
| Tier | Rank | Player | Opp | Total | Spread | Implied Points | PPG |
| 1 | WR1 | Tyreek Hill | vs PIT | 44.5 | -7.5 | 26.00 | 22.3 |
| 1 | WR2 | Ja'Marr Chase | vs ATL | 47.5 | -6.5 | 27.00 | 18.1 |
| 1 | WR3 | Davante Adams | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 20.1 |
| 2 | WR4 | Deebo Samuel | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 15.2 |
| 2 | WR5 | Amon-Ra St. Brown | at DAL | 49.0 | 6.5 | 21.25 | 19.7 |
| 2 | WR6 | CeeDee Lamb | vs DET | 49.0 | -6.5 | 27.75 | 14.6 |
| 2 | WR7 | DK Metcalf | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 13.1 |
| 2 | WR8 | Michael Pittman Jr. | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 17.1 |
| 2 | WR9 | Mike Evans | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 15.6 |
| 2 | WR10 | Jaylen Waddle | vs PIT | 44.5 | -7.5 | 26.00 | 16.8 |
| 3 | WR11 | Chris Godwin | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 11.8 |
| 3 | WR12 | Mike Williams | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 13.8 |
| 3 | WR13 | Amari Cooper | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 15.0 |
| 3 | WR14 | Tee Higgins | vs ATL | 47.5 | -6.5 | 27.00 | 14.8 |
| 3 | WR15 | Christian Kirk | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 14.0 |
| 3 | WR16 | Chris Olave | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 15.2 |
| 3 | WR17 | Tyler Lockett | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 14.4 |
| 3 | WR18 | Courtland Sutton | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 13.4 |
| 3 | WR19 | Diontae Johnson | at MIA | 44.5 | 7.5 | 18.50 | 11.1 |
| 3 | WR20 | DeAndre Hopkins | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 0.0 |
| 3 | WR21 | Brandon Aiyuk | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 12.6 |
| 4 | WR22 | Allen Lazard | at WAS | 41.5 | -4.5 | 23.00 | 14.5 |
| 4 | WR23 | Jakobi Meyers | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 15.7 |
| 4 | WR24 | Drake London | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 11.6 |
| 4 | WR25 | Keenan Allen | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 10.6 |
| 4 | WR26 | JuJu Smith-Schuster | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 11.3 |
| 4 | WR27 | Brandin Cooks | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 10.7 |
| 4 | WR28 | Terry McLaurin | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 11.1 |
| 4 | WR29 | Garrett Wilson | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 10.8 |
| 4 | WR30 | Romeo Doubs | at WAS | 41.5 | -4.5 | 23.00 | 10.1 |
| 4 | WR31 | Rashod Bateman | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 11.3 |
| 4 | WR32 | Rondale Moore | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 9.2 |
| 4 | WR33 | Curtis Samuel | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 13.0 |
| 4 | WR34 | Jerry Jeudy | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 9.7 |
| 4 | WR35 | Michael Gallup | vs DET | 49.0 | -6.5 | 27.75 | 7.5 |
| 5 | WR36 | DJ Moore | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 8.4 |
| 5 | WR37 | Hunter Renfrow | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 7.5 |
| 5 | WR38 | Zay Jones | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 11.1 |
| 5 | WR39 | George Pickens | at MIA | 44.5 | 7.5 | 18.50 | 8.0 |
| 5 | WR40 | Alec Pierce | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 10.2 |
| 5 | WR41 | Corey Davis | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 11.0 |
| 5 | WR42 | Darnell Mooney | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 6.9 |
| 5 | WR43 | Tyler Boyd | vs ATL | 47.5 | -6.5 | 27.00 | 11.0 |
| 5 | WR44 | Chase Claypool | at MIA | 44.5 | 7.5 | 18.50 | 9.5 |
| 5 | WR45 | Robert Woods | vs IND | 42.0 | -2.5 | 22.25 | 8.7 |
| 5 | WR46 | Marquez Valdes-Scantling | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 7.4 |
| 5 | WR47 | Wan'Dale Robinson | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 7.1 |
| 5 | WR48 | Russell Gage | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 8.4 |
| 5 | WR49 | Tyquan Thornton | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 12.0 |
| 5 | WR50 | Donovan Peoples-Jones | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 7.8 |
| 5 | WR51 | Nico Collins | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 8.4 |
| 5 | WR52 | Braxton Berrios | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 5.7 |
| 5 | WR53 | DeVante Parker | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 7.2 |
| 5 | WR54 | Marvin Jones Jr. | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 9.0 |
| 5 | WR55 | Darius Slayton | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 6.3 |
| 5 | WR56 | Jahan Dotson | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 13.1 |
| 6 | WR57 | Mecole Hardman | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 7.7 |
| 6 | WR58 | Josh Reynolds | at DAL | 49.0 | 6.5 | 21.25 | 13.7 |
| 6 | WR59 | Parris Campbell | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 6.8 |
| 6 | WR60 | DeAndre Carter | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 6.5 |
| 6 | WR61 | Marquez Callaway | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 6.2 |
| 6 | WR62 | Tre'Quan Smith | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 8.2 |
| 6 | WR63 | Noah Brown | vs DET | 49.0 | -6.5 | 27.75 | 9.2 |
| 6 | WR64 | Devin Duvernay | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 11.4 |
| 6 | WR65 | Olamide Zaccheaus | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 8.9 |
| 6 | WR66 | Robbie Anderson | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 7.5 |
| 6 | WR67 | Mack Hollins | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 10.1 |
| 6 | WR68 | Nick Westbrook-Ikhine | vs IND | 42.0 | -2.5 | 22.25 | 5.2 |
| 7 | WR69 | K.J. Hamler | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 3.0 |
| 7 | WR70 | Jauan Jennings | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 4.6 |
| 7 | WR71 | Demarcus Robinson | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 3.8 |
| 7 | WR72 | A.J. Green | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 3.5 |
| 7 | WR73 | Skyy Moore | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 2.3 |
| 7 | WR74 | Shi Smith | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 3.1 |
| 7 | WR75 | Dante Pettis | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 5.1 |
| 7 | WR76 | Marquise Goodwin | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 2.8 |
| 7 | WR77 | Terrace Marshall Jr. | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 3.5 |
| 7 | WR78 | Equanimeous St. Brown | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 4.6 |
| 7 | WR79 | Richie James Jr. | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 6.1 |
| 7 | WR80 | David Bell | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 2.5 |
| 7 | WR81 | Marcus Johnson | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 5.5 |
| 7 | WR82 | Trent Sherfield | vs PIT | 44.5 | -7.5 | 26.00 | 3.1 |
| 7 | WR83 | David Sills V | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 3.4 |
| 7 | WR84 | Kyle Philips | vs IND | 42.0 | -2.5 | 22.25 | 3.0 |
| 7 | WR85 | Chris Moore | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 4.7 |
| 7 | WR86 | Laviska Shenault Jr. | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 8.5 |
| 7 | WR87 | Bryan Edwards | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 1.1 |
| 7 | WR88 | KhaDarel Hodge | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 4.6 |
| 7 | WR89 | Scotty Miller | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 4.0 |
| 7 | WR90 | Dee Eskridge | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 2.4 |
| 7 | WR91 | Velus Jones Jr. | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 2.2 |
Tier 1 – Tyreek Hill
Hill has gathered in 12 or more targets in four of six games and is on pace for 184 – a pace that has him set to smash his career-high of 155.
He is the only WR in the NFL with a minimum of 100 routes run with a plus-3.00 YPRR against man and zone looks (4.37 and 3.71). It doesn’t matter what type of defensive looks opponents try or who is throwing him the ball; the 28-year-old is unstoppable in an offense designed to create yards after the catch opportunities.
He is averaging 22.3 fantasy points per game and draws a matchup against the Steelers, who are allowing the sixth-most in regulation play (60.3). The Dolphins carry the sixth-highest implied point total on the slate.
Say hello to the WR1 overall in the Week 7 rankings.
Tier 1 – Deebo Samuel
The 49ers are dealing with multiple injuries on defense and draw a tough matchup against the Chiefs that should push them out of their run-centric game plan.
In Week 6, that resulted in a season-high 10 targets for Samuel. His target shares have been elite all season; the stud WR just needs the game scripts to open up more passing plays.
| Week | Routes | TPRR | Targets | ADOT | Air Yards | EZ Tgts | 3rd/4th Down Targets | PA Targets | PPR |
| 1 | 94% | 21% | 27% | 6.6 | 22% | 0% | 18% | 14% | 14.6 |
| 2 | 90% | 23% | 24% | -0.2 | -1% | 0% | 14% | 20% | 14.7 |
| 3 | 89% | 28% | 29% | 7.0 | 23% | 0% | 29% | 25% | 12.9 |
| 4 | 93% | 27% | 29% | 1.9 | 9% | 0% | 30% | 14% | 23.7 |
| 5 | 89% | 28% | 30% | 10.4 | 36% | 100% | 20% | 63% | 11.2 |
| 6 | 84% | 29% | 25% | 7.5 | 25% | 0% | 20% | 10% | 16.0 |
| YTD | 89% | 26% | 27% | 6.0 | 21% | 40% | 21% | 24% | 15.5 |
The Chiefs allow 71 points per game to opposing pass catchers in non-overtime play. That is the most in the NFL, averaging 336 yards and three TDs per game.
Of course, Samuel should also be good for two to three rushing attempts, providing the potential for a 12- to 15-touch game for one of the NFL’s superstars.
Samuel is a top-five option this weekend and is a SMASH play.
Tier 2 – D.K. Metcalf
Metcalf had a dud game against the Cardinals in Week 6, with him and Geno Smith only connecting on two of his seven targets. However, this week he gets another nice matchup against a Chargers secondary that benched J.C. Jackson last weekend.
The Chargers offer up the ninth-most points to pass catchers in non-overtime play with 58 points per game. They play man coverage the sixth-most in the NFL (32.4%), where Metcalf excels. The fourth-year receiver has a long-standing trend of getting a target bump against man coverage.
| 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | |
| Target Share vs. Man | 25% | 29% | 45% | 43% |
| Target Share vs. Zone | 16% | 24% | 23% | 23% |
The Chargers have used man coverage 40% or more twice this season. If that plays out this weekend, it will likely mean surplus opportunities for Metcalf. Tyler Lockett is questionable. If he can’t go or isn’t 100%, that could create additional targets.
No other game on the slate offers a higher game total, and the Seahawks are seven-point dogs. Seattle passes the ball slightly above expectation (5%) in trailing scripts and snaps the ball with more time on the play clock than any other team in neutral scripts. The ingredients are there for a lot of passing volume.
I have Metcalf ranked three spots ahead of expert consensus – he is a SMASH play.
Tier 3 – CeeDee Lamb
Lamb hasn’t had a breakout game yet, but his underlying utilization tells the story of a player who has made huge strides and is due for a MONSTER outing. Lamb ranks No. 1 in the NFL in target share (33%) but only averages 14.6 per game so far.
| Week | Routes | TPRR | Targets | ADOT | Air Yards | EZ Tgts | 3rd/4th Down Targets | PA Targets | PPR |
| 1 | 98% | 22% | 26% | 10.8 | 29% | 0% | 25% | 30% | 4.9 |
| 2 | 97% | 30% | 34% | 9.8 | 53% | 0% | 18% | 30% | 15.1 |
| 3 | 100% | 39% | 43% | 11.4 | 53% | 50% | 38% | 42% | 22.7 |
| 4 | 100% | 24% | 32% | 14.4 | 43% | 0% | 0% | 57% | 21.7 |
| 5 | 100% | 37% | 47% | 7.6 | 48% | 0% | 44% | 29% | 10.3 |
| 6 | 95% | 24% | 27% | 7.7 | 23% | 0% | 14% | 33% | 12.7 |
| YTD | 98% | 28% | 33% | 10.3 | 39% | 13% | 24% | 36% | 14.6 |
The Cowboys move Lamb all over the field, with 58% of his routes coming from the slot, and they also use play action to get him into space, with 36% of targets coming off of play action.
A play-action target is worth almost 20% more than a non-play-action target.
The Lions PFF coverage grade is the second-worst (44.5), and they allow the eighth-most fantasy points per game to pass catchers in regulation play (58.7). Detroit uses man coverage the most in the NFL (46.5%), and Lamb has played extremely well against man this season, earning a 40% target share.
Dallas has the second-highest implied points on the slate, and they face an opponent that converts the third-most drives into TDs. With Dak Prescott back, the Cowboys can go pass-heavy any time they need.
The utilization, matchup, and game environment align for Lamb in Week 7, making him a SMASH play.
Tier 2 – Michael Pittman Jr.
Pittman draws the No. 2 matchup for pass catchers against the Titans, who allow 305 yards and 2.4 TDs per game in non-overtime play. Only the Lions and Raiders offer a higher EPA per play against the pass.
The third-year WR has a 24% target share in games played and has two games with 13-plus targets this season. The Colts utilize play-action on 30% of his targets – a 5% advantage over the average NFL receiver since 2019.
Pittman is a low-end WR1 this weekend.
Tier 4 – Garrett Wilson
With Elijah Moore out this weekend, Wilson should see Wilson approach his season-high in route participation (86%) against the Broncos. He currently leads the team in target share (22%) by seven percentage points. His targets per route (TPRR) are even stronger at 25%.
Denver has the No. 1 PFF coverage grade (90.6), so the matchup won’t be easy. Wilson will likely have to take more reps outside, with Braxton Berrios taking over the slot duties. However, the Broncos play the third-most zone coverage in the NFL, so the Jets can keep their first-rounder away from Patrick Surtain II if they choose.
The path to victory for the Jets might not be a heavy passing attack against a lackluster Denver offense. Despite the matchup and game environment challenges (38-point game total), the allure of expanded route participation is enough to move the rookie target earner up the ranks.
Wilson is a mid-range WR3 with upside in Week 7.
Additional WR Notes & Movers:
- Tier 3 – Chris Olave boasts a 27% target rate (TPRR) and will return to the field on Thursday night against the Cardinals. The Saints won’t have Michael Thomas or Jarvis Landry, creating a funnel opportunity for a WR that has shown he is ready to dominate targets. I have Olave ranked 10 spots ahead of expert consensus rankings – he is a mid-range WR2 this week.
- Tier 3 – Diontae Johnson had a 31% target share against man coverage in 2021. He has followed that up with 30% in 2022. The Steelers play the Dolphins this weekend – the third-most heavy man coverage unit (45.4%). Johnson has been quiet lately, but he is still the Steelers' receiving corps leader, and this could be his week. Johnson is a low-end WR2.
- Tier 3 – Brandon Aiyuk blew up in Week 6 for a top-5 WR finish thanks to a trailing game script that forced the 49ers to throw. This game could be a deja vu situation against the Chiefs, who will challenge San Francisco to score. The Chiefs also provide the No. 1 fantasy point matchup for pass catchers, allowing 71 points per game in non-overtime. Aiyuk ranks four spots ahead of consensus as a low-end WR2.
- Tier 4 – Keenan Allen (hamstring) is a game-time decision. The matchup against Seattle offers a great game environment with the highest implied point total. The Chargers could play it cautiously with Allen and wait to bring him back after the bye in Week 8. If he plays, he is a WR3 if he suits up (late game).
- Tier 4 – Michael Gallup played 84% of snaps over the last three games with a 19% target rate (TPRR). The matchup against the Lions is a juicy one for many of the reasons mentioned above for CeeDee Lamb. Gallup moves into the WR3 conversation for Week 7.
Tight end
| Tier | Rank | Player | Opp | Total | Spread | Implied Points | PPG |
| 1 | TE1 | Travis Kelce | at SF | 48.5 | -1.5 | 25.00 | 21.8 |
| 1 | TE2 | Mark Andrews | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 19.1 |
| 2 | TE3 | George Kittle | vs KC | 48.5 | 1.5 | 23.50 | 8.8 |
| 2 | TE4 | Zach Ertz | vs NO | 44.5 | -1.5 | 23.00 | 13.2 |
| 2 | TE5 | David Njoku | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 10.9 |
| 3 | TE6 | T.J. Hockenson | at DAL | 49.0 | 6.5 | 21.25 | 13.1 |
| 3 | TE7 | Kyle Pitts | at CIN | 47.5 | 6.5 | 20.50 | 7.2 |
| 3 | TE8 | Gerald Everett | vs SEA | 50.5 | -5.5 | 28.00 | 9.7 |
| 4 | TE9 | Robert Tonyan | at WAS | 41.5 | -4.5 | 23.00 | 9.2 |
| 4 | TE10 | Hayden Hurst | vs ATL | 47.5 | -6.5 | 27.00 | 8.8 |
| 4 | TE11 | Taysom Hill | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 12.7 |
| 4 | TE12 | Evan Engram | vs NYG | 43.0 | -3.0 | 23.00 | 7.8 |
| 4 | TE13 | Pat Freiermuth | at MIA | 44.5 | 7.5 | 18.50 | 9.9 |
| 4 | TE14 | Daniel Bellinger | at JAC | 43.0 | 3.0 | 20.00 | 9.4 |
| 4 | TE15 | Hunter Henry | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 5.8 |
| 5 | TE16 | Dalton Schultz | vs DET | 49.0 | -6.5 | 27.75 | 3.8 |
| 5 | TE17 | Mike Gesicki | vs PIT | 44.5 | -7.5 | 26.00 | 8.3 |
| 5 | TE18 | Noah Fant | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 6.7 |
| 5 | TE19 | Greg Dulcich | vs NYJ | 38.0 | -1.0 | 19.50 | 12.4 |
| 5 | TE20 | Juwan Johnson | at ARI | 44.5 | 1.5 | 21.50 | 5.2 |
| 5 | TE21 | Cade Otton | at CAR | 39.5 | -13.0 | 26.25 | 4.4 |
| 5 | TE22 | Foster Moreau | vs HOU | 45.5 | -7.0 | 26.25 | 6.7 |
| 5 | TE23 | Cole Kmet | at NE | 39.5 | 8.0 | 15.75 | 3.6 |
| 6 | TE24 | Tyler Conklin | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 8.2 |
| 6 | TE25 | Will Dissly | at LAC | 50.5 | 5.5 | 22.50 | 8.0 |
| 6 | TE26 | Cole Turner | vs GB | 41.5 | 4.5 | 18.50 | 2.2 |
| 6 | TE27 | Mo Alie-Cox | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 7.3 |
| 6 | TE28 | Isaiah Likely | vs CLE | 45.5 | -6.5 | 26.00 | 3.6 |
| 6 | TE29 | Harrison Bryant | at BAL | 45.5 | 6.5 | 19.50 | 4.4 |
| 6 | TE30 | Kylen Granson | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 5.3 |
| 6 | TE31 | O.J. Howard | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 4.8 |
| 7 | TE32 | Austin Hooper | vs IND | 42.0 | -2.5 | 22.25 | 2.3 |
| 7 | TE33 | Brevin Jordan | at LV | 45.5 | 7.0 | 19.25 | 1.9 |
| 7 | TE34 | Tommy Tremble | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 2.3 |
| 7 | TE35 | C.J. Uzomah | at DEN | 38.0 | 1.0 | 18.50 | 2.1 |
| 7 | TE36 | Jonnu Smith | vs CHI | 39.5 | -8.0 | 23.75 | 5.2 |
| 7 | TE37 | Jelani Woods | at TEN | 42.0 | 2.5 | 19.75 | 7.6 |
| 7 | TE38 | Ian Thomas | vs TB | 39.5 | 13.0 | 13.25 | 3.6 |
Additional TE Notes & Movers:
- Tier 2 – George Kittle registered a season-high nine targets (23%) in Week 6 against the Falcons. The 49ers’ banged-up defense couldn’t hold down Atlanta’s offense, which led to a trailing script. We could see that play out again against the Chiefs this weekend, which makes all of the San Francisco pass catchers viable in Week 7. Kittle is a high-end TE1.
- Tier 2 – Zach Ertz has nine or more targets in four games this season, and that trend could continue with Marquise Brown lost for an extended period. Deandre Hopkins returns this weekend, but there will be plenty to go around – Brown was bogarting 10 targets per game. Ertz is a high-end TE1.
- Tier 2 – David Njoku is the No. 5 TE on the season and averages 5.6 targets per game. His 1.96 YPRR is elite by TE standards, and he gets a matchup against the Ravens, who allow the fourth-most points per game to pass catchers in non-overtime play (65.2). Njoku is a mid-range TE1.
- Tier 4 – Robert Tonyan delivered a season-high route participation of 74% last weekend. The Packers were short-handed at WR, which could have played a role, but he also sports a 23% target rate (TPRR) for the season – which is TE1-worthy. Tonyan is a low-end TE1 against the Commanders.
- Tier 4 – Daniel Bellinger has steadily improved his route participation over the last three games (38%, 56% and 82%). When a TE can get over 80% route participation, they typically end up inside the top 12. The rookie has had two 20% target shares in the last three weeks, and there isn’t a lot of competition for targets. Bellinger is a high-end TE2 this weekend against the Jaguars.
