The NFL continues to deliver surprises as the season progresses, particularly for fantasy football managers navigating their teams during this critical stretch. Key players are emerging, and performance predictions are shaping up for the remainder of the season.
Rashid Shaheed Joins Seattle Seahawks
Newly acquired by the Seattle Seahawks from the New Orleans Saints, wide receiver Rashid Shaheed is poised for a significant impact alongside quarterback Sam Darnold. Shaheed averaged 11.3 yards per catch with the Saints, where he struggled to find the end zone despite showing promise as a deep threat. In a fresh environment, he brings the potential for increased production, especially given Darnold’s ability to throw deep passes effectively.
In his previous season, Shaheed averaged 17.5 yards per catch with Derek Carr, which indicates his capability to make big plays. The Seahawks’ current offensive dynamics, particularly with their running game faltering, suggest Shaheed could become a key target for Darnold, elevating him into a viable flex option as the season progresses. Should he convert just one deep pass into a touchdown, his value could rise dramatically within fantasy leagues.
Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Performance Under Scrutiny
After a standout game against the Dallas Cowboys, where he recorded a career-high seven receptions, Marvin Harrison Jr. faces expectations that may not align with reality. His performance was impressive, but the question remains whether it was a sign of things to come or merely a product of facing a weak defense. Harrison’s prior games saw him catching only two passes each, raising concerns about his consistency, particularly with Kyler Murray still recovering from injury.
While Harrison’s potential remains high due to his collegiate success at Ohio State, the transition to the NFL has not been seamless, especially under the pressure of a less capable offensive line and a struggling quarterback situation. Fantasy managers should proceed with caution, as expectations may need to be tempered.
Lamar Jackson’s Stellar Projection
On a more positive note, Lamar Jackson, quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, is expected to lead all players in fantasy points for the remainder of the season. Last year, he averaged 25.3 fantasy points per game, a figure that solidifies his elite status. Despite missing three games due to a hamstring injury, he demonstrated his scoring ability with four touchdown passes in a recent win against the Miami Dolphins.
As the Ravens’ roster regains health and the team aims for a playoff berth, Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities will keep defenses guessing. His ability to run and throw effectively places him in a prime position for fantasy success as the season enters its final stages.
Concerns for Jahmyr Gibbs
Meanwhile, Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions presents a mixed bag for fantasy managers. His performance has not matched the expectations set earlier in the season, particularly in terms of receiving production. With only 19 receptions over the last seven games, Gibbs has struggled to maintain efficiency despite sharing touches with teammate David Montgomery.
The Lions’ offensive struggles, particularly against formidable defenses, suggest that Gibbs may not be the reliable asset many had hoped he would be. As the season progresses into December, fantasy managers should be prepared for variable outputs, especially in difficult matchups.
Potential Changes at Quarterback for the Browns
Finally, the Cleveland Browns are facing uncertainty at quarterback, with Dillon Gabriel underwhelming in his performance. With the team considering a pivot to Shedeur Sanders, who has shown promise in college, the Browns may be searching for a spark to turn their season around.
Gabriel’s lack of production and struggles with accuracy have led to speculation about the need for a change, especially as the Browns continue to underperform. Sanders’ ability to throw downfield could rejuvenate the Browns’ offense, although his transition to the NFL remains a question mark.
As the NFL season unfolds, fantasy managers should keep a close eye on these developments, as player performances and potential changes can significantly impact their teams’ fortunes.
