The race to the playoffs is in full swing, and with players breaking out and getting injured, some previously overlooked options are now available for Week 12. Check out these 15 under-the-radar players from various positions who might be worth considering for your starting roster. Some may require a waiver claim, while others may already be on your roster and finally ready to make their debut this week.
QUARTERBACK
Jameis Winston, NO at Atlanta - Derek Carr is still in the concussion protocol and injured his shoulder in Week 10. The week 11 bye helped, but it may not be enough time for healing for him to suit up in Week 12 against the Falcons. If that's the case, look for Jameis Winston to start. Winston has a more lively arm, and his throws tend to have more air yards than Carr's. New Orleans has leaned towards this style of offense with Winston in the past, and now he'll have the chance to put up solid numbers against an opponent who has been poor against quarterbacks, especially lately. Since Week 8, Atlanta has allowed the most fantasy points to quarterbacks, allowing 8 total touchdowns in three games. The game script for this matchup could favor a strong outcome for the passing/receiving game of the Saints. If Winston does get the start, he is worthy of a spot start this week if you're looking for a lifeline.
Gardner Minshew, IND vs Tampa Bay - The Colts return home after winning two straight road games against beatable foes Carolina and New England. They will face a Buccaneers team who have struggled against the pass since Week 6, allowing 322 yards passing per game and 2.0 passing touchdowns. Minshew has not had a 300-yard game since back-to-back 300-yard efforts in Week 6 and 7, but this matchup may shift the balance in his favor. The Bucs have allowed five 300-yard games this season, including three of their last four and four of their last six.
Dak Prescott DAL, vs Washington - It is no secret that Dak Prescott is a worthy starter, but this matchup bears mentioning. Prescott has been performing exceptionally well, achieving three 300-yard games out of the last four, along with a total of 14 touchdowns and just 2 interceptions. On the upcoming game against Washington, it's important to note that the Commanders have struggled in defending against the pass, allowing a significant 20 touchdown passes in their last eight games. In only one of those games, an opposing quarterback had just one touchdown pass. Last week, Tommy Devito threw for 246 yards and 3 touchdowns against Washington. If Devito could manage that, one can only wonder what Prescott would achieve. This presents a great opportunity for the Cowboys' passing game, and Prescott should be a must-start this week.