Veteran receivers on the rebound
These players saw their fantasy values increase or decrease most based on their performances in Week 15:
Sizzlers
WR Terry McLaurin, Washington Commanders:
McLaurin not only posted his first 100-yard game of the season, but he rebounded after getting blanked in his previous game. The Commanders must have used the bye week to work on getting McLaurin the ball (six catches, 141 yards, TD), though it’s unlikely many fantasy managers had the confidence to play him.
WR Joshua Palmer, Los Angeles Chargers: Like McLaurin, Palmer had his first 100-yard performance in Week 15, taking advantage of Keenan Allen’s absence. If Allen is out again, remember Palmer.
RB Aaron
Bay Packers: After missing nearly a calendar month, Jones was back with 13 carries for 53 yards, plus four receptions. His 17 total touches vs. Tampa Bay were tied for his second most of the season.
RB Zamir White, Las Vegas Raiders: White subbed in for injured Josh Jacobs, posting career highs with 17 carries for 69 yards and scoring his first NFL touchdown. If Jacobs (knee) is forced to miss more time, White’s residency in the Las Vegas backfield could be a successful one.
QB Joe Flacco, Cleveland Browns: A fantasy staple for a decade in Baltimore, Flacco has mostly been a backup the past few years. He is making the most of his opportunity now though, jelling nicely with top wideout Amari Cooper and tight end David Njoku.
Fizzlers Jones, Green
WR Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings: You never drop a player of Jefferson’s caliber. However, after waiting nearly two months for him, you were likely hoping for WR1 numbers. He showed some positive signs in Week 15 but has no touchdowns in two games since his return.
QB Justin
Bears: Fields has three TDs and two interceptions in four games, while running for just one score. Prior to his injury, he was looking like a QB1 in fantasy leagues, but he has been more of a QB2 since returning.
RB Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans: Pierce had just a single touch in Week 15 and a total of just six in the past two games. In the Space City right now, it’s all about Devin Singletary, and Pierce will have to bide his time until “Motor” starts to slow down.
RB Najee Harris, Steelers: Harris has 24 carries for 52 yards in the past two outings, and he lost a key fumble on Saturday. With no touchdowns since Week 12, he’s doing nothing to help fantasy managers.
WR Josh Downs, Colts: Downs has been consistent with his catch totals, with exactly three in his past three games. However, he has managed a total of just 65 receiving yards in that span.