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As the fantasy football playoffs continue, injuries to key players like James Conner and Jalen Hurts have left many managers scrambling for replacements. This article highlights potential free agent pickups who are available in over 50% of ESPN leagues, focusing on running backs, quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends who could step up in Week 17. Notable performances from players such as Jonathan Taylor and Justin Jefferson are contrasted with disappointing outings from stars like Josh Allen and Cooper Kupp, emphasizing the volatility of fantasy football during the playoffs.
- James Conner's injury could significantly impact fantasy rosters, with Michael Carter stepping in as a potential lead back.
- Kendre Miller and Alexander Mattison are strong RB pickups due to injuries on their respective teams.
- Caleb Williams and Drake Maye are emerging as valuable QB options for Week 17.
James Conner | RB
Injury
Week 17
- Suffered an ankle injury in Week 16, impacting many fantasy teams.
- Averaging 18.5 touches per game this season.
Michael Carter | RB
Pickup
Week 17
- Stepped in after Conner's injury, with minimal roster percentage.
- Could become the lead back if both Conner and Benson are out.
Kendre Miller | RB
Pickup
Week 17
- Expected to take on a larger role with Alvin Kamara injured.
- Averaging similar touches to Kamara.
Alexander Mattison | RB
Pickup
Week 17
- Part of a committee with Ameer Abdullah, solid flex option.
- Had 16 touches against the Jaguars.
Caleb Williams | QB
Breakout
Week 17
- First Bears rookie QB to throw for over 3,000 yards in debut season.
- Scored 22.7 fantasy points in Week 16.
Drake Maye | QB
Pickup
Week 17
- Consistent performances with 17-plus fantasy points in four of last five games.
- Facing a weak Chargers defense in Week 17.
Bryce Young | QB
Breakout
Week 17
- Season-high 27.1 fantasy points against the Cardinals.
- Favorable matchup against the Buccaneers.
Rashod Bateman | WR
Pickup
Week 17
- Best season of his career with 39 catches and 8 touchdowns.
- Expect more targets against the Texans.
Dalton Schultz | TE
Pickup
Week 17
- Quiet season but has posted 15-plus points in two of last three weeks.
- Injuries in the TE group could lead to more targets.
Chig Okonkwo | TE
Breakout
Week 17
- Had a breakout game with 19.1 fantasy points against the Colts.
- Solid matchup against the Jaguars in Week 17.
Arizona Cardinals
- James Conner's injury creates uncertainty in the backfield.
- Michael Carter could be a key player moving forward.
New Orleans Saints
- Alvin Kamara's injury opens up opportunities for Kendre Miller.
- Miller could be a strong fantasy option in the coming weeks.
Las Vegas Raiders
- Mattison and Abdullah will share the workload in the backfield.
- Both could be viable flex options against the Saints.
Chicago Bears
- Caleb Williams is showing promise as a rookie QB.
- Could be a strong fantasy option in Week 17.
New England Patriots
- Drake Maye is consistently scoring well and is a good pickup.
- Facing a favorable matchup in Week 17.
Carolina Panthers
- Bryce Young is emerging as a fantasy option.
- Favorable matchup against the Buccaneers could lead to a strong performance.
Baltimore Ravens
- Rashod Bateman could see increased targets in Week 17.
- Expect a more balanced offensive approach against the Texans.
Houston Texans
- Dalton Schultz could benefit from injuries in the receiving corps.
- A favorable matchup against the Ravens could boost his fantasy value.
Tennessee Titans
- Chig Okonkwo's recent performances make him a strong TE option.
- Good matchup against the Jaguars could lead to more success.