Fantasy Football Wild Card Rankings and DFS Picks

As the NFL playoffs begin, fantasy football managers are gearing up for a second season. With wild card weekend upon us, identifying key players and optimal DFS strategies is essential.

Quarterbacks:

Keep an eye on Jordan Love's return and how rested quarterbacks like Josh Allen perform.

Running Backs:

Saquon Barkley: Despite a somewhat disappointing regular season, Barkley's high workload and favorable matchup against an injury-hit 49ers defense make him a top cash game pick.

Kyren Williams: Playing as a significant favorite against the Panthers, Williams is expected to perform well. His consistent positive Plus/Minus makes him a reliable RB2 option.

Woody Marks: Marks has emerged as the Texans' lead back. His lower price point offers salary relief, although he faces a tough matchup against the Steelers.

D’Andre Swift: As the lead back for the Bears, Swift could exploit the Packers' vulnerable run defense.

Josh Jacobs: A high-risk, high-reward tournament option. If healthy, he could return to his early-season form as a prolific touchdown scorer.

Christian McCaffrey: Despite a tough matchup against the Eagles, McCaffrey's receiving ability makes him less game-script dependent, maintaining his high ceiling.

Wide Receivers:

The return of players like Davante Adams and DK Metcalf will influence WR rankings and DFS strategies. Monitor their practice participation and game-day status.

Tight Ends:

Assess the status of players like Dallas Goedert and Tyler Higbee, as their availability and performance can significantly impact tight end rankings.

DFS Strategy:

Running Backs: Prioritize running backs with high workloads and favorable matchups. Consider both cash game stability and tournament upside.

Matchups: Target players in favorable matchups, particularly those facing defenses susceptible to the run.

Ownership: Be mindful of player ownership percentages in DFS tournaments. Contrarian picks can provide an edge if they outperform their projected ownership.

Monitor injury reports and player updates leading up to game day. Have backup options ready in case of late scratches.

Matchups are very important, especially for running backs. Target players facing defenses that struggle against the run.

Plus/Minus represents a player's actual fantasy point production compared to their expected production based on their salary. Positive Plus/Minus values indicate good value.

For the Wild Card weekend, focus on running backs with high workloads and favorable matchups. Saquon Barkley, Kyren Williams, and Woody Marks are strong cash game options, while D’Andre Swift, Josh Jacobs, and Christian McCaffrey offer high upside for tournaments. Stay updated on injury reports and adjust your lineups accordingly to maximize your chances of success.

Do you think these rankings will hold true? Which players are you targeting for your fantasy lineups? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!