There are a few certainties in the unpredictable world of fantasy football, but certain players are poised to deliver solid performances in Week 7 of the NFL season.
**Quarterbacks**
**Start:** Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers vs. Ravens
Baker Mayfield has emerged as a surprising choice, currently ranking second in fantasy points among quarterbacks this season. Interestingly, there are 13 other quarterbacks that hold higher ownership rates in fantasy leagues leading into Week 7. This could shift after this week, as Mayfield has the potential to generate impressive fantasy results irrespective of the Buccaneers’ outcome. He is averaging close to 24 fantasy points per game and will face a Ravens team that ranks as a top-five matchup for opposing quarterbacks. The Ravens have struggled against the pass, putting the focus on Mayfield and his aerial attack.
Other strong options include:
— Jalen Hurts vs. Giants
— Andy Dalton at Commanders
— Jayden Daniels at Panthers
— Jordan Love vs. Texans
**Avoid:** Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs at 49ers
Patrick Mahomes is clinging to his star status while struggling as QB24 this season, with barely 14 fantasy points per game in 2024. Facing off against the 49ers, a team that still poses challenges despite a drop-off from their former dominance, Mahomes will have to compensate without his top target, Rashee Rice. Instead, he may rely heavily on short passes and his running backs for offensive production.
**Running Backs**
**Start:** Chuba Hubbard, Panthers at Commanders
Chuba Hubbard is having a notable season start. Although he didn’t find the end zone in Week 6, his performance included over 100 all-purpose yards against a formidable Falcons defense. This week could prove even more favorable as the Panthers take on a Commanders squad that ranks among the top-10 easiest matchups for running backs.
Other recommended players include:
— Tony Pollard at Bills
— Joe Mixon at Packers
— JK Dobbins at Cardinals
— Bijan Robinson vs. Seahawks
**Avoid:** Josh Jacobs, Packers vs. Texans
Josh Jacobs has been one of the least effective running backs this season, particularly in light of a flourishing Packers offense that features a dynamic passing game under Jordan Love. Jacobs has received a fair share of carries, yet Emanuel Wilson is encroaching on his touches. With a challenging matchup against Houston’s strong run defense in Week 7, Jacobs may not meet expectations.
**Wide Receivers**
**Start:** Tank Dell, Texans at Packers
Tank Dell’s health and the temporary absence of teammate Nico Collins have allowed him to thrive. In Week 6, Dell led his team with nine targets, recording 57 yards and a touchdown against a decent defensive secondary. Dell’s prospects are even brighter this week against the Packers, who present a top-10 matchup for wide receivers.
Other players to consider:
— DeVonta Smith at Giants
— Jordan Addison vs. Lions
— Zay Flowers at Buccaneers
— Diontae Johnson at Commanders
**Avoid:** Brandon Aiyuk, Chiefs vs. 49ers
Brandon Aiyuk has had a mixed season, highlighted by his impressive 147-yard performance in Week 5, but followed by a lackluster showing in Week 6 with only two catches for 37 yards. The Week 7 matchup against the Chiefs presents a difficult challenge, making Aiyuk a risky option given his inconsistency, with only one performance exceeding 50 yards thus far.
**Tight Ends**
**Start:** Evan Engram, Jaguars vs. Patriots
Evan Engram is back in action and playing exceptionally well, catching all ten of his targeted throws in Week 6 for 102 yards against the Bears. After recovering from a hamstring issue that sidelined him for four games, Engram’s upward trend looks promising in Week 7 against the Patriots.
Other recommended tight ends:
— Cade Otton vs. Ravens
— Dalton Schultz at Packers
— Kyle Pitts vs. Seahawks
— Trey McBride vs. Chargers
**Avoid:** Tucker Kraft, Packers vs. Texans
Tucker Kraft had a strong showing that overshadowed Luke Musgrave in the green and gold’s offense, notably scoring three touchdowns and exceeding 130 total yards in Weeks 4 and 5. However, following the return of Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, Kraft’s targets diminished significantly, placing him as a lower priority. Given Houston’s robust tight end defense, he may struggle to make an impact in Week 7.