Here are some players to consider picking up this week, if available, to get ahead of the other managers in your league. These players include potential bye-week fill-ins, players returning from injury, and defenses to consider in advance.
Week 11 Byes: Colts and Saints
It is Week 11, and we only have two teams on a bye. If you are lucky enough to know if you are playoff-bound already, it is time to start targeting players for their playoff schedule.
Beat the Waiver Wire: No-Brainers
In most leagues, these guys aren't available. But if you're fortunate enough to see them on the waiver wire, grab them.
QB Joe Flacco, Cincinnati Bengals (53% rostered on Sleeper)
This was my no-brainer last week, and continues to be as the Bengals return from their bye week. A week off is even more important for the elder statesman Joe Flacco, and if he was as good as he was in Week 9 while battling a shoulder issue (470 yards and four TDs), imagine him fresh. Get ready for a great run of matchups for the Bengals, starting with the Steelers, who have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing QBs this season.
QB Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals (67% rostered on Sleeper)
If there is a world where Burrow was not stashed on IR, or you are in a league without IR spots, grab him ASAP. The great schedule that Flacco has? Yup, that would be Burrow's as well. It was reported that Burrow will return to practice this week.
Beat the Waiver Wire: Quarterbacks
QB Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins (21% rostered on Sleeper)
Everyone expected the Dolphins to beat up on the Bills, right? Exactly. Tagovailoa had a decent day with 173 yards passing and two touchdowns, but he also threw two interceptions. However, this week, Miami faces the Commanders, who have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Tagovailoa could prove a great fill-in if you are the Daniel Jones manager this week. Miami also has a fantastic playoff schedule for the quarterback, featuring games against the Steelers, Bengals, and Buccaneers.
QB Jameis Winston, New York Giants (1% rostered on Sleeper)
Jaxson Dart suffered a concussion on Sunday, and head coach Brian Daboll was fired on Monday. On Wednesday, it was announced that Jameis Winston will be starting this week. Who knows how long this will last, but hopefully for a few weeks, since Jameis is a joy in fantasy.
Just a reminder to check your waiver wire for: Aaron Rodgers (46%), J.J. McCarthy (41%)