As we dive into Week 7 of the NFL season, several key fantasy stats stand out, including a notable resurgence from Tony Pollard. Here’s what you need to know about players making an impact this week, starting with the Arizona Cardinals.
Trey McBride Steps Up
Trey McBride had an impressive week, running 76% of his routes from the slot and securing six receptions, marking a season-high for slot usage. With Marvin Harrison Jr. sidelined due to a concussion, McBride seized the opportunity, finishing with eight catches for 96 yards. His increased role could make him a valuable asset moving forward.
Atlanta Falcons: Drake London Shines
Drake London has emerged as the WR2 in expected points since Week 2, solidifying his position in Atlanta’s passing game. With a 31% target share over the last five games and an average of 20.3 PPR points, he’s becoming a must-have receiver. While acquiring him might be challenging, his upward trajectory suggests he deserves to be viewed as a top-five receiver.
Baltimore Ravens: Derrick Henry Dominates
Derrick Henry is on track for a remarkable season, averaging 1,995 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns. Even without significant contributions as a pass-catcher, his performance has propelled the Ravens to four straight victories. As Baltimore remains favored in upcoming games, Henry is proving to be a fantasy powerhouse.
Ray Davis Emerges
Ray Davis accounted for 67% of Buffalo’s carries, running 20 times for 97 yards. He also contributed with three receptions for 55 yards. With James Cook still in the mix, Davis’s performance could lead to a shift in the Bills’ backfield dynamics, making him a player to watch.
Carolina Panthers: Diontae Johnson’s Consistency
Diontae Johnson is averaging 18.3 PPR points per game with Andy Dalton at quarterback. Despite the Panthers’ struggles, Johnson boasts a 30% target share, ranking as the WR3 in expected fantasy points since Dalton took over. His ability to command targets keeps him relevant in fantasy discussions.
Cincinnati Bengals: Tee Higgins Outshines Ja’Marr Chase
In an interesting twist, Tee Higgins has consistently out-targeted Ja’Marr Chase over the last three weeks. With 31 targets compared to Chase’s 24, Higgins is proving to be a valuable asset in the Bengals’ offense, making him a key player for fantasy managers.
Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson’s Struggles
Deshaun Watson’s performance continues to disappoint, averaging just 5.1 yards per attempt—the worst in 20 years among quarterbacks with at least 150 attempts. His struggles hinder the fantasy potential of other Browns players, making them risky picks.
Denver Broncos: Devaughn Vele’s Impact
Rookie Devaughn Vele is making waves with a 19% target share across two games. After leading the team in receptions during his debut, he tied for the team lead again upon returning to action. His growing involvement suggests he could become a consistent fantasy contributor.
Detroit Lions: David Montgomery’s Efficiency
David Montgomery is excelling, averaging more yards after contact and yards per route run than teammate Jahmyr Gibbs. With a two-year contract extension, Montgomery is solidifying his role as a primary back, limiting Gibbs’s fantasy upside.
Green Bay Packers: Christian Watson’s Struggles
Christian Watson has faced challenges this season, earning targets on just 14% of his routes. His limited production makes him a risky WR4, especially with increased competition in the Packers’ receiving corps.
Tank Dell’s Rising Star
Tank Dell earned a 31% target share, thriving in Nico Collins’ absence. With Dell leading the team in first-read targets, he is becoming a favorite target and could solidify his position as a primary receiver moving forward.
Indianapolis Colts: Josh Downs’ Efficiency
Josh Downs leads the NFL in targets per route run, showcasing his efficiency despite a low aDOT. His ability to secure targets makes him a valuable asset in PPR leagues, especially as he continues to gain traction.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence’s Drop Issues
Trevor Lawrence leads the league in drop rate among quarterbacks, with multiple dropped touchdowns in Week 6. While his struggles are concerning, improved receiver performance could elevate his fantasy outlook.
Kansas City Chiefs: JuJu Smith-Schuster’s Performance
After leading the Chiefs in receiving yards in Week 5, JuJu Smith-Schuster faces uncertainty as the team adjusts its wide receiver lineup. Without key players, he may become the focal point, but consistency is essential.
Las Vegas Raiders: Brock Bowers’ Target Rate
Brock Bowers has an impressive target rate of 27%, the highest among tight ends with at least 50 routes. With Davante Adams now with the Jets, Bowers could see even more opportunities, making him a tight end to watch.
Los Angeles Chargers: J.K. Dobbins’ Decline
J.K. Dobbins has struggled recently, averaging just 1.9 yards after contact per attempt. His declining efficiency raises concerns, making him a player to monitor closely.
Los Angeles Rams: Colby Parkinson’s Target Increase
Colby Parkinson led the Rams with 13 targets in Week 4, showcasing his potential. With Cooper Kupp’s status uncertain, Parkinson could see increased targets, making him a valuable option.
Miami Dolphins: Passing Struggles Continue
The Dolphins have a -11% pass rate without Tua Tagovailoa, indicating a shift towards a run-heavy approach. This trend may impact fantasy production, especially in upcoming matchups.
Minnesota Vikings: Ty Chandler’s Opportunities
Ty Chandler averaged 15.3 touches and 81.8 yards from scrimmage in his previous starts. With potential changes in the Vikings’ backfield, he could see increased opportunities.
New England Patriots: Drake Maye’s Explosive Plays
Drake Maye is creating explosive plays on 11.1% of his dropbacks. His willingness to take shots downfield may enhance the Patriots’ offensive output, making him a player to watch.
New Orleans Saints: Bub Means Steps Up
Bub Means led the Saints in receptions last week, tying for the team lead in targets. With key injuries in the receiving corps, he could find himself in a prime position moving forward.
New York Giants: Malik Nabers’ EPA
Despite missing two games, Malik Nabers ranks seventh among wide receivers in total EPA. His presence could improve the Giants’ offense, but overall production remains a concern.
New York Jets: Breece Hall’s Workload Increases
Breece Hall saw a season-high 86% snap share and touched the ball 23 times in Week 6. As the Jets’ offense evolves, Hall’s role as a primary back could yield significant fantasy value.
Philadelphia Eagles: Jalen Hurts Without A.J. Brown
Jalen Hurts has struggled without A.J. Brown, completing just one deep pass in three games. His performance may improve if Brown returns to the lineup.
Pittsburgh Steelers: George Pickens’ High Target Share
George Pickens accounted for 35% of the Steelers’ targets and 56% of their air yards last week. His high usage indicates he could be a primary target moving forward.
San Francisco 49ers: George Kittle’s Rising Stats
George Kittle is on pace for career highs in target share and targets per route run. His recent performance, despite injuries to teammates, solidifies him as a top tight end option.
Seattle Seahawks: Ken Walker’s Receiving Usage
Ken Walker is averaging 5.3 receptions per game, showing a significant increase in receiving usage. His versatile role makes him a valuable fantasy asset.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bucky Irving’s Snap Share
Bucky Irving saw a significant portion of the Buccaneers’ snaps, indicating a potential shift in their backfield dynamics. His performance warrants close attention.
Tennessee Titans: Tony Pollard’s Strong Performance
Tony Pollard leads all running backs in yards after contact per attempt. His resurgence this season showcases his potential as a top fantasy running back, making him a player to invest in.
Washington Commanders: Austin Ekeler’s Yards Per Route Run
Austin Ekeler is leading all running backs in yards per route run, showcasing his effectiveness as a weapon out of the backfield. His overall production remains strong, making him a vital part of fantasy lineups.
As we enter Week 7, these stats highlight key players to watch in your fantasy leagues. Stay informed and adjust your strategies to maximize your chances of success!
