It’s never too early to look for your next matchup and an opportunity to strengthen your fantasy football lineup. Here are some options to consider for Week 16, the semifinals of the fantasy football playoffs in most leagues.
Rashod Bateman, WR, Baltimore Ravens (25%)
Lamar Jackson got his bye in Week 15 with absolute shooting, going 21-of-25 for 290 yards and a whopping five touchdown passes. He also added 65 yards on the ground. But his arm ruled the day and Rashod Bateman was the direct beneficiary.
Bateman was tied for second on the team with five goals, but scored two touchdowns and led the team in receiving yards. On this day, he showed off his explosive ability by making only three catches.
The Ravens have a lot of weapons, but the way Jackson is playing right now (he might win another MVP), we want this offense. If you need WR help, add Bateman.
Jerome Ford, RB, Cleveland Browns (42%)
Consider this your final call to add Jerome Ford to your fantasy. News dropped quickly after the Browns lost to Kansas City Nick Chubb, who unfortunately suffered a broken foot. Ford is now expected to be the Browns’ undisputed starter.
We’ve seen Ford perform well in the starting pitcher role in the past, and he did the same in Week 15 after Chubb left the game. Ford scored his most fantastic score against the Chiefs this season and is set for an exciting matchup with the hapless Bengals next week. Expect him to be a top waiver wire addition in Week 16.
Kendre Miller, RB, New Orleans Saints (11% rostered)
Alvin Kamara had to leave the Saints’ comeback effort against the Commanders with a groin injury. Kamara has been the entire Saints’ offense, so fantasy football managers will have to monitor this injury situation closely.
But for now, it looks like Kendre Miller will have a larger role in New Orleans’ backfield.
Miller showed some explosiveness in limited action on Sunday. If Kamara misses time and the Saints have a pretty good schedule for the rest of the season in terms of RBs, he’s the next guy. If nothing else, Miller is another backfield RB who should be listed in more leagues as insurance.
