2024 Fantasy Football Week 16 Start 'Em Sit 'Em: Wide Receivers

12/22/2024 09:24 AM

The fantasy football season has reached its climax! With the playoffs in full swing, every lineup decision matters more than ever as managers battle for a spot in the championship game. This guide is your essential resource for breaking down the best and worst wide receiver matchups each week. We will help you identify who's primed for a big performance and who's likely to disappoint.

Week 16 began with an AFC West showdown between the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday night. We've also seen the Chiefs outlast the Texans and the Ravens topple the Steelers. As the NFL playoff race intensifies, fantasy football managers are locked in equally fierce contests, striving to keep their postseason dreams alive.

For those still in contention, every roster choice carries immense weight, with the power to make or break a championship run. And of all those critical decisions, few are as pivotal as determining which wide receivers to start.

With most leagues requiring at least two wide receiver slots and a flex position, there are plenty of chances for a single player to elevate your fantasy football team. Getting these calls right could be the difference between playoff glory and heartbreak.

Here, you’ll find a look at look at some of the toughest matchups remaining in Week 16 of the 2024 NFL Season. It's time to see which Wide Receivers to start and which ones to sit in your fantasy football team.

Wide Receivers to Start in Week 16

Malik Nabers, NYG (@ ATL)

Malik Nabers has established himself as a reliable target. That’s regardless of who's under center for the Giants. Over the past few weeks, New York has cycled through four quarterbacks—Daniel Jones, Tommy DeVito, Drew Lock, and Tim Boyle. Still, Nabers has consistently delivered. Since November, he hasn't dipped below nine targets or 50 receiving yards in any game.

This week, Nabers faces a Falcons defense that ranks among the league’s worst in dropback EPA allowed. That’s both season-long and over the past five weeks. Whether DeVito clears concussion protocol or Boyle steps in, Nabers should see plenty of action. He's a steady WR3 option with the potential to post WR1 numbers.

Khalil Shakir, BUF (vs. NE)

Khalil Shakir has been on fire. He has scored touchdowns in back-to-back games. Even with Keon Coleman's return in Week 15, Shakir's role in the offense remains secure. In a Bills receiving corps that lacks a clear top target, Shakir has been the most dependable option this season.

Healthy for all but one game, Shakir leads Buffalo in targets, receptions, and yards. Now, he faces a Patriots defense that has struggled mightily against the pass. With Josh Allen heating up, Shakir is primed for another strong fantasy football performance.

Brian Thomas Jr., JAC (@ LV)

Brian Thomas Jr. is coming off a career-high 32.5 fantasy football points against the Jets. He continued a hot streak where he's topped 16.6 points in three straight games. With 36 targets over that span, quarterback Mac Jones is feeding Thomas Jr. consistently. Yes, the Raiders’ defense can be challenging on the perimeter. That said, Thomas Jr.'s recent form makes him a must-start. His current momentum and opportunity volume outweigh the matchup concerns.

Other Starts: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, SEA (vs. MIN), Jauan Jennings, SF (@ MIA)

Wide Receivers to Sit in Week 16

Jaylen Waddle, MIA (vs. SF)

Jaylen Waddle's availability is in question due to a knee injury. Also, even if he suits up, he faces an uphill battle against the 49ers' stout secondary. San Francisco's passing defense has improved significantly with the return of Charvarius Ward. They have consistently limited wide receiver production. Whether sidelined or active, Waddle is a risky fantasy football option this week.

DK Metcalf, SEA (vs. MIN)

While Jaxon Smith-Njigba is trending up, Metcalf has struggled. He hasn't surpassed 10.6 PPR points in his last four outings. He has also seen six or fewer targets in three of those games. His production has been lackluster regardless of matchup strength. Even with a favorable game against the Vikings, it's hard to trust Metcalf to deliver.

Jerry Jeudy, CLE (@ CIN)

Jerry Jeudy has been a fantasy football standout recently. However, there's a catch. His success is closely tied to Jameis Winston. Jeudy us averaging 21.1 fantasy football points in games Winston starts. With Winston benched in favor of Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Jeudy's floor drops significantly. That makes him a risk this week.

Other Sits: Deebo Samuel, SF (@ MIA), Calvin Ridley, TEN (@ IND)

Looking Ahead

Week 16 is the turning point for fantasy football managers striving for championship glory. Every roster decision matters, and getting the wide receiver spots right can make all the difference. Whether you're leaning on breakout stars like Malik Nabers and Khalil Shakir to deliver or making the tough call to bench big names like Jaylen Waddle or DK Metcalf, the key is to trust the matchups and stay flexible. The fantasy playoffs demand precision and adaptability, so monitor injuries, track trends, and stay one step ahead of your competition. With the right moves, you'll be one step closer to raising that championship trophy.

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