Fantasy Football Week 11 Rankings, Grades & Start/Sit Advice (2023)

Welcome to Week 11, friends. As always, we’re here to provide you with some fantasy football Quick Grades (or Start/Sit Grades, if you prefer) for the week.

We tapped into our consensus projections and rankings and Derek Brown’s weekly Primer to generate this week’s Quick Grades. See below for the results and accompanying notes.

• Fitz’s Tiers & Rankings
• Weekly Fantasy Football Expert Rankings
• Fantasy Football Start/Sit Advice
• Fantasy Football Trade Tools

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Week 11 Quarterback Start/Sit Grades

Justin Fields: The last time we saw Fields, he was fresh off QB3 and QB1 finishes in fantasy before an injury booted him from his Week 6 game against Minnesota. The rushing upside is always present with Fields, especially with the Bears recommitting to using his legs. Fields is second in rushing yards per game and sixth in red zone carries per game. Fields remains an underrated passer. Among 37 qualifying quarterbacks, he ranks 11th in yards per attempt, 14th in highly accurate throw rate, and 11th in hero throw rate. Since Week 5, the Lions have been a team that you can pass against with a high degree of success. They have allowed the ninth-highest yards per attempt, the fourth-most passing touchdowns (tied), and the 12th-most fantasy points via passing. Fields’ biggest concern is against the Lions’ pass rush. Detroit is tenth in pressure rate. Against pressure, Fields has been middle of the road, ranking 20th in adjusted completion rate and 17th in passing grade. Since Week 5, the Lions have the 12th-highest rate of single-high (55.1%) and have allowed the second-highest fantasy points per dropback in single-high. Among 37 qualifying quarterbacks against single-high, Fields is tenth in yards per attempt and fantasy points per dropback against single-high while also ranking sixth in CPOE. This game could turn into a shootout easily. If that happens, Fields could be a top-three quarterback this week. Week 11 Positional Value: QB1

Jared Goff: Goff is the QB13 in fantasy points per game with four QB1 weeks on his resume. He is seventh in yards per attempt, eighth in passer rating, and fourth in CPOE. Goff doesn’t get enough credit for how accurate he has been this season, ranking ninth in highly accurate throw rate and 12th in hero throw rate. The Bears’ pass defense has improved since the outset of the season, but they still aren’t a pass defense to be frightened by. Since Week 5, they have allowed the fourth-most passing touchdowns (tied), the 11th-highest adjusted completion rate, and the eighth-most fantasy points via passing. Over the last two weeks after the addition of Montez Sweat, the Bears still have ranked 17th in pressure rate and 20th in time to pressure. Goff should have plenty of time to pick apart this secondary in Week 11. Week 11 Positional Value: QB1

Justin Herbert: Herbert has been the QB8 in fantasy points per game since Week 4, but that fantasy output has masked a quarterback that has struggled. Since Week 4, Herbert has been 19th in yards per attempt, 15th in big-time throw rate, and 27th in adjusted completion rate. He also has had the tenth-highest turnover-worthy play rate during that span. Since Week 5, the Packers have been a volatile pass defense, ranking 19th in passer rating and 14th in adjusted completion rate allowed. They have also shown some flashes of strength, holding passers to the sixth-lowest CPOE and the ninth-lowest yards per attempt. Herbert could post another QB1 week here, but the range of outcomes is wider than it might seem. Week 11 Positional Value: QB1

Jordan Love: Love is the QB15 in fantasy with four QB1 outings on his 2023 resume. Love has been incredibly erratic this season, ranking 23rd in yards per attempt, 31st in CPOE, and 21st in highly accurate throw rate. Luckily for Love, the Bolts have created much resistance in the way of quarterbacks all season. They have been a dream “get right” matchup for passers. Since Week 5, they have allowed the fourth-highest yards per attempt, the sixth-highest passer rating, and the second-highest adjusted completion rate. During this timeframe, they have also been 23rd in pressure rate, so Love should enjoy clean pockets, which he needs. His struggles against pressure have been profound. Week 11 Positional Value: Borderline QB1

Aidan O’Connell: O’Connell is a low-ceiling QB2 with QB23 and QB21 finishes over the last two weeks as he has averaged 8.9 fantasy points per game. Even if we want to argue that he remains an upgrade over Jimmy Garoppolo, he hasn’t set the world on fire. Among 34 qualifying quarterbacks, he has ranked 24th in highly accurate throw rate, 21st in CPOE, and 25th in fantasy points per dropback, so even as a game manager he has been subpar. Since Jalen Ramsey‘s return the Dolphins pass defense has stepped up allowing the fourth-lowest yards per attempt and CPOE. Since Week 8 they have given up the seventh-fewest fantasy points via passing. Week 11 Positional Value: Basement-level QB2

Tua Tagovailoa: Tagovailoa has been volatile at times, but he has still played quite well overall this season as the QB8 in fantasy points per game. Among 37 qualifying quarterbacks, Tagovailoa is second in yards per attempt and passer rating while also ranking 11th in adjusted completion rate. Since Week 5, the Raiders’ pass defense has posted some strong numbers, holding passers to the sixth-lowest yards per attempt, the fewest passing touchdowns (three), and the fifth-fewest fantasy points via passing. These numbers need context, though, as they have played against Jordan Love, Mac Jones, Tyson Bagent, Tommy DeVito, and Zach Wilson. Jared Goff completed 70.2% of his passes with 7.3 yards per attempt against them. Tagovailoa can light them up if the Dolphins don’t just lean on their ground game all day. Week 11 Positional Value: QB1

Tommy DeVito: Over the last two weeks, among 34 qualifying quarterbacks, DeVito has had the sixth-lowest yards per attempt, the tenth-lowest passer rating, and the eighth-lowest adjusted completion rate. He has ranked 21st in fantasy points per dropback. Since Week 6, Washington has remained a basement-level pass defense, giving up the fifth-highest passing yards per game, the 12th-highest yards per attempt, and the most passing touchdowns. DeVito could squeak by with decent QB2 numbers this week, as crazy as it sounds. Week 11 Positional Value: QB2

Sam Howell: Howell has jumped up to the QB9 in fantasy points per game. He’s been a lucrative source of volume all season, ranking first in passing attempts, passing yards, and air yards. He ranks fifth in passing touchdowns, 12th in CPOE, tenth in adjusted completion rate, and ninth in hero throw rate. The Giants’ pass defense has declined since Week 6, allowing the eighth-highest yards per attempt, passing touchdowns (tied), and fantasy points via passing. Howell should flirt with another QB1 game in Week 11. Week 11 Positional Value: QB1

Bryce Young: Young is the QB25 in fantasy who has mightily struggled this season. He has only one game this season with above 6.5 yards per attempt, multiple passing touchdowns, or at least 240 passing yards. Outside of an outlier game against Detroit, he has not finished higher than QB17 in weekly scoring this season. Since Week 6, the Cowboys have held passers to the fifth-lowest yards per attempt, the lowest CPOE, and the second-lowest adjusted completion rate while pressuring them at the sixth-highest rate. Young doesn’t stand a chance against this defense this week. Week 11 Positional Value: Sit

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Week 11 Wide Receiver Start/Sit Grades

CeeDee Lamb: Lamb is now the WR4 in fantasy, ranking sixth in deep targets and ninth in red zone targets. He has been on an “A.J. Brown” type of run, with at least 117 receiving yards in each of his last four games and at least 151 receiving yards in each of his last three contests. During this wonderful run of amazingness by Prescott, Lamb has been the pass-game engine with a 32.9% target share, a 41.3% air-yard share, 3.93 YPRR, and a 34.8% first-read share. Since Week 6, the Panthers have had the third-highest rate of single-high (66.9%). Since Week 6 against single-high, Lamb’s numbers have been ridiculous, with a 33.7% target share, a 43.7% air-yard share, 4.58 YPRR, and a 38.1% first-read share. Lamb will run about 63% of his routes against Troy Hill (63% catch rate and 60.0 passer rating). Lamb should rock out again this week. Week 11 Positional Value: WR1

Brandin Cooks: Since Week 6, Cooks is the only wide receiver outside of Lamb with above a 60% route run rate. Over the last four games, Cooks has had a 13.2% target share, a 17.2% air-yard share, 2.05 YPRR, and a 15.7% first-read share. Since Week 6, the Panthers have had the third-highest rate of single-high (66.9%). Against single-high over the last four weeks, Cooks has had a 15.7% target share, a 20.3% air-yard share, 2.85 YPRR, and a 19% first-read share. Cooks should cook again in Week 11. Since Week 5, the Panthers have allowed the ninth-highest PPR points per target to outside wide receivers. Week 11 Positional Value: WR3

Adam Thielen: The wild ride of the Thielen show over the first few weeks has come to a screeching halt. Since Week 8, Thielen has finished as the WR24, WR42, and WR35 in weekly fantasy scoring, eclipsing 50 receiving yards only once. Since Week 8, Thielen has had a 25% target share, a 19.8% air-yard share, 1.14 YPRR, and a 29.4% first-read share. The usage numbers have still been present, but the production hasn’t. This could be a good bounce-back spot for him, though. Since Week 5, Dallas has allowed the highest PPR points per target and highest passer rating to opposing slot receivers. Thielen will run about 68% of his routes against Jourdan Lewis (65.2% catch rate and 134.1 passer rating). With how badly Bryce Young has struggled and with consideration of the outside corner matchups, Thielen is the only wide receiver worth discussing as a start this week. Week 11 Positional Value: WR2/3

DeAndre Hopkins: With Levis tossing him the ball, Hopkins has had a 22.4% target share, a 40.5% air-yard share, 2.39 YPRR, and a 26.7% first-read share. Hopkins is the WR31 in fantasy, ranking sixth in deep targets and tenth in red zone targets. This has been an average matchup for wide receivers since Week 6, with Jacksonville ranking 15th in PPR points per target and 11th in receiving yards allowed to perimeter wide receivers. Week 11 Positional Value: WR3

Christian Kirk: Overall, Krik has had a 21.8% target share, a 29.3% air-yard share, 2.18 YPRR, and a 25.4% first-read share as the WR21 in fantasy. This week is shaping up like another Kirk week. Since Week 6, the Titans have utilized two-high at the tenth-highest rate (52.1%). Against two-high, Kirk has exploded with a 27.1% target share, a 32.9% air-yard share, 2.45 YPRR, and a 35.1% first read share. Kirk should destroy the Titans in Week 11. Week 11 Positional Value: WR2

Calvin Ridley: Ridley has been boom or bust all year. He has three games as a WR3 or higher, but also Ridley has five games in which he has failed to surpass eight fantasy points. Ridley is 15th in deep targets, but he only has five red zone targets this season. Since Week 6, the Titans have utilized two-high at the tenth-highest rate (52.1%). Against two-high, Ridley’s target share has fallen to 12.4% with a 27.9% air-yard share with 1.31 YPRR and a 16.0% first read share. Ridley has already faced the top-three teams in two-high rates since Week 6 (KC, HOU, ATL), and against them he averaged 36.6 receiving yards with only one touchdown. Week 11 Positional Value: WR3/4

Marquise Brown: Last week, in Murray’s return, Brown handled only a 12.5% target share, a 22.1% air-yard share, and a 15.4% first-read share (fourth on the team). Prior to Murray’s return, Brown had seen a 25.4% target share, a 39.6% air-yard share, and a 30.9% first-read share, producing 1.54 YPRR. Brown ranks 12th in deep targets and 21st among wideouts in red zone targets. Since Week 6, Houston has had the third-highest rate of two high (60.3%). Against two high, Brown has seen his usage decline. In Weeks 1-9, his target share dropped to 20.4%, his air-yard share was 28.3%, his YPRR stood at 1.10, and his first-read share was 23.9%. Add these numbers on top of his usage last week against Atlanta, who has had the second-highest usage of two high since Week 6 (63.2%), and Brown’s Week 11 outlook is worrisome. Week 11 Positional Value: WR3

Michael Wilson: Last week, with Murray back, Wilson had an 88.9% route run rate, 15.6% target share, an 18.7% air-yard share, 1.06 YPRR, and a 19.2% first-read share. Since Week 6, Houston has had the third-highest rate of two high (60.3%). Against two high prior to Murray’s return, Wilson had a 17.5% target share, a 32.3% air-yard share, 2.31 YPRR, and a 22.9% first-read share. His air-yard share ranks first on the team, and his first-read share is second on the team against two high. Wilson has a red zone target in each of his last two games. Since Week 5, Houston has allowed the third-highest PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers. Week 11 Positional Value: WR4/5 with WR3 upside

Tank Dell: In Dell’s six full games, he has handled a 23.0% target share and a 34.9% air-yard share with a 28.2% first-read share producing 2.24 YPRR. He has finished as a top-24 wide receiver in four of those six games (WR19, WR7, WR1, WR12). Dell has seen six red zone targets over the last two games. He is the WR16 in fantasy points per game. Since Week 6, the Cardinals have had the fourth-highest rate of two high (57.7%). In Dell’s six full games, he has seen a decline in usage against two high with a 15.8% target share, a 27.7% air-yard share, and a 20.4% first-read share (2.06 YPRR). If the Texans’ receiving depth chart is pruned this week because of injuries, that might not matter, though. Week 11 Positional Value: WR2

Mike Evans: Evans has continued to defy off-season logic. The fall-off has not happened. He is the WR11 in fantasy points per game, ranking eighth in deep targets with three red zone targets across his last five games. Overall, Evans has a 22.2% target share, a 38.7% air-yard share, 2.81 YPRR, and a 28.1% first-read share. Since Week 7, the 49ers have had the 11th-highest rate of single-high (56.6%). Against single-high, Evans’ YPRR has increased to 2.93, but his first read share has fallen to 24.1%, along with his target share sliding to 21.3%. Evans should have a strong day against the 49ers. Evans will run about 71% of his routes against Ambry Thomas (73.7% catch rate and 91.6 passer rating) and Charvarius Ward (57.1% catch rate and 74.5 passer rating). Week 11 Positional Value: WR1/2

Chris Godwin: Godwin is the WR37 in fantasy with a 21.9% target share, a 25.9% air-yard share, 1.87 YPRR, and a 27.6% first-read share. He is seventh among wide receivers in red zone targets while also drawing seven deep targets this season. Godwin has not posted a monster game all season, but that changes this week. Since Week 7, the 49ers have had the 11th-highest rate of single-high (56.6%). Against single-high, Godwin has seen a huge bump in his numbers with a 24.4% target share, 1.95 YPRR, and a 32.5% first-read share. Godwin will run about 67% of his routes against Ambry Thomas (73.7% catch rate and 91.6 passer rating) and Charvarius Ward (57.1% catch rate and 74.5 passer rating). Week 11 Positional Value: WR1/2

Brandon Aiyuk: Aiyuk is the WR13 in fantasy, ranking 15th in deep targets, but he only has four red zone looks all season (none since Week 2). Overall, Aiyuk has had a 25.5% target share, a 46.3% air-yard share, 3.48 YPRR, and a 28.8% first-read share. Aiyuk should be able to roast this secondary deep this week, as Tampa Bay has allowed the sixth-most deep passing yards, the third-most deep passing touchdowns, and the fourth-highest deep passer rating this season. Over their last three games, Tampa Bay has the tenth-highest single-high rate (57.9%). Against single-high, Aiyuk has seen a bump with a 28.4% target share, a 46.7% air-yard share, 3.45 YPRR, and a 29.9% first-read share. Aiyuk will dominate this week. Week 11 Positional Value: WR1

Deebo Samuel: Samuel is the WR33 in fantasy points per game with an 18.2% target share, a 17.2% air-yard share, 2.26 YPRR, and a 21.2% first-read share. He has five red zone targets in his six full games played. Over their last three games, Tampa Bay has the tenth-highest single-high rate (57.9%). Against single-high, Samuel has disappeared (in his five full games) with a 14.7% first-read share, a 17.2% air-yard share, 0.78 YPRR, and a 15.9% first-read share. The 49ers’ passing attack will feature Aiyuk and Kittle this week. Week 11 Positional Value: WR3

Week 11 Running Back Start/Sit Grades

Breece Hall: Since being unleashed in Week 5, Hall has averaged 19.2 touches and 103 total yards as the RB6 in fantasy. Hall has run into resistance with defenses not respecting the Jets passing game. He hasn’t topped 50 rushing yards since Week 5. He’s been able to compensate with receiving production, as he has at least 47 receiving yards in three of his last four games. Hall’s tackle-breaking remains exquisite, as he’s 11th in missed tackles forced per attempt and first in yards after contact per attempt. The Bills have massively improved as a run defense over the last few weeks. Since Week 5, they have allowed the 11th-lowest explosive run rate and the fifth-fewest missed tackles per attempt while also having the this-best stuff rate. Hall has the talent to overcome this, but it won’t be easy. Week 11 Positional Value: RB1

James Cook: If you ever want a quick jolt of pain, look at Cook’s usage this season. His snap share has skipped around from 40% to 67% weekly. His workload has been as light as eight touches in a game to 21 touches. It’s a weekly dice roll. Last week, Cook fumbled early in the game and was sat on the bench, which makes all the sense in the world unless you consider that was his first fumble of the season. I could go on and on about that, but I won’t. Overall, Cook has averaged 14.4 touches and 83.7 total yards. He is the RB28 in fantasy, ranking 20th in carries, 22nd in targets, and 22nd in red zone touches. Among 47 qualifying backs, he is 12th in explosive run rate and 16th in yards after contact per attempt. If Buffalo gives him the volume, he will produce this week. The Jets have had issues defending the run. Since Week 5, they have allowed the fifth-highest explosive run rate, the sixth-highest missed tackles per attempt, and the fifth-highest yards after contact per attempt. Week 11 Positional Value: RB2 with RB1 upside

Kenneth Walker: Since Week 8, Walker has played 41-49% of the snaps, averaging 13 touches and 71.3 total yards. His tackle-breaking metrics paint the clearest picture over this period that he isn’t close to healthy. Among 46 qualifying backs, he has ranked 41st in missed tackles forced per attempt and 39th in yards after contact per attempt. Since Week 5, the Rams have held backs to the 13th-lowest explosive run rate, the eighth-lowest yards after contact per attempt, and the tenth-lowest yards per carry allowed to zone runs (Walker 63.9% zone since Week 8). Week 11 Positional Value: RB2/3

Zach Charbonnet: Charbonnet has played 52-59% of the snaps weekly since Week 8, averaging 7.3 touches and 46.3 total yards. Over his last three games, among 46 qualifying backs, he ranks first in explosive run rate and fifth in yards after contact per attempt. Charbonnet will lead this backfield in snaps again this week, but considering the tough matchup on the ground, the Seahawks should focus on their aerial attack. Since Week 5, the Rams have held backs to the 13th-lowest explosive run rate, the eighth-lowest yards after contact per attempt, and the tenth-lowest yards per carry allowed to zone runs (Charbonnet 60% zone since Week 8). Week 11 Positional Value: RB2/3

Darrell Henderson Jr.: Henderson will lead the backfield in snaps again this week. He has played at least 57% of the snaps in two of his three games, with the team averaging 15.3 touches and 62 total yards. Among 56 qualifying backs, Henderson ranks 35th in explosive run rate and 45th in yards after contact per attempt. When he first returned, he looked like maybe he had some of his former juice, but that juice had expired. If we take out the game in which Seattle just gave up against Baltimore, across their last five games, Seattle has allowed the 12th-lowest missed tackle per attempt rate, the eighth-lowest rushing touchdown rate, and the ninth-lowest yards per carry to gap runs (Henderson 60% gap). Week 11 Positional Value: RB3/4

Javonte Williams: Since Week 7, Williams has played 52-63% of the snaps, averaging 24.3 touches and 101.3 total yards. Over the last three weeks, he has finished as the RB20, RB9, and RB5 in fantasy. Williams is ninth in explosive run rate and 14th in yards after contact per attempt. Since Week 5, Minnesota remains a tough run defense to grind out production against. They have yielded the third-lowest explosive run rate, the 11th-lowest yards after contact per attempt, and the 11th-lowest yards per carry to gap runs (Williams 51.4% gap). Williams will need volume to overcome this tough matchup. Week 11 Positional Value: RB1/2

D’Andre Swift: Swift is the RB13 in fantasy points per game. He is 15th in snap share, 16th in opportunity share, and eighth in weight opportunities. Since Week 4, he has averaged 19.2 touches and 76.3 total yards. Swift hasn’t rushed for 100 yards since Week 3. He hasn’t finished with 100 total yards since Week 5. He’s been in a slump, relying on volume. He’s only scored three touchdowns across his last six games and a total of four this season. Among 47 qualifying backs, he is 37th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 34th in yards after contact per attempt. Swift could enjoy better-rushing production this week against the Chiefs, who, since Week 6, have allowed the 12th-highest explosive run rate, the seventh-highest yards after contact per attempt, and the seventh-highest yards before contact per attempt. Week 11 Positional Value: RB1

Isiah Pacheco: Pacheco is the RB21 in fantasy points per game, ranking 14th in opportunity share, 21st in snap share, and 16th in weight opportunities. Since Week 2, he has averaged 17 touches and 78.9 total yards. Among 47 qualifying backs, he ranks 14th in explosive run rate and 13th in yards after contact per attempt. Since Week 5, the Eagles’ run defense has taken a step back, coughing up the sixth-highest explosive run rate, the fifth-highest missed tackles per attempt, and ranking 16th in yards after contact per attempt allowed. Week 11 Positional Value: RB1

Najee Harris: Harris and Jaylen Warren split the work down the middle last week, with Warren gaining a slight edge in routes and red zone opportunities. His volume was still fantastic last week, with 19 touches and 96 total yards. With Pittsburgh leaning into their rushing attack as much as they have, both Harris and Warren could get 15-20 touches weekly moving forward. It’s impossible to ignore how good Harris has been this season on a per-touch basis, ranking sixth in explosive run rate and 23rd in yards after contact per attempt. Harris should remain a key cog in the Steeler’s weekly plans despite the world condensing on an announcement that Warren is the team’s starter. Since Week 6, the Browns have given up the second-highest explosive run rate, the seventh-most fantasy points via rushing, and the highest missed tackles per attempt. Since Week 7, Harris has been the RB13 in fantasy points per game. Week 11 Positional Value: RB2

Jaylen Warren: Warren has been amazing this season. He has been an RB2 or higher in 67% of his games. For all of those keeping up with that in-depth math, yes, it has been in 6 of 9 games (nice :). Over the last two weeks, he has averaged 15.5 touches and 111.5 total yards. Among 47 qualifying backs, Warren is third in explosive run rate, first in missed tackles forced per attempt, and fifth in yards after contact per attempt. Warren and Harris should feast again this week against the Browns. Since Week 6, the Browns have given up the second-highest explosive run rate, the seventh-most fantasy points via rushing, and the highest missed tackles per attempt. The reason that the Browns’ run defense isn’t talked about as a weak link is that they have faced the fifth-fewest carries this season. Week 11 Positional Value: RB2

Jerome Ford: Ford’s return to close to full health is reflected in his volume and playing time over the last two weeks, as he has played 64% of the snaps both weeks while averaging 21.5 touches and 93 total yards. Among 47 qualifying backs, Ford ranks 15th in missed tackles forced per attempt and sixth in yards after contact per attempt. The biggest issue for Ford has been his red zone usage, as Kareem Hunt has out-touched him in this realm of the field five to three over the last two weeks. The Steelers have improved some as a run defense, but this is still a matchup that Ford should smash. Since Week 6, the Steelers have been 20th in explosive run rate, 18th in missed tackles per attempt, and 14th in yards after contact per attempt. The secret sauce is their issues with defending gap runs. Over their last five games, they have allowed the fifth-highest yards per carry to gap runs (4.62). 53.2% of Ford’s runs have been on gap plays. Week 11 Positional Value: RB2

Kareem Hunt: Hunt is an uninspiring flex play. Over the last two weeks, he has averaged 33% of the snaps with 12 touches and 35 total yards. Hunt’s most redeeming quality is his red zone usage, where he has out-touched Ford five to three over the last two weeks. Hunt has lost his former juice, though. Among 47 qualifying backs, he is 43rd in explosive run rate and missed tackles forced per attempt. A good rushing matchup should help Hunt this week. Since Week 6, the Steelers have been 20th in explosive run rate, 18th in missed tackles per attempt, and 14th in yards after contact per attempt. Hunt should also enjoy the efficiency boost on his gap runs this week (58.6% gap). Over their last five games, they have allowed the fifth-highest yards per carry to gap runs. Week 11 Positional Value: RB3/4

David Montgomery: Last week, Montgomery had a successful return to the lineups with 12 rushes (zero targets) and 116 rushing yards. His day would have been a letdown for many if he hadn’t broken a 75-yard run for a score. Outside of that monster run, he had 11 rushing attempts with 41 rushing yards and a 38% snap share. I’m not a big proponent of the “well if you take away this big play, then” type of analysis, but with his limited volume and low snap count, the downside and floor are very real. Montgomery was still active in the red zone, finishing with a 40% red zone share of the backfield work last week (60% Gibbs). With Gibbs outpacing Montgomery in every facet, we have to come to grips with the fact that Montgomery’s early season domination of the workload is likely gone. Montgomery still has been one of the best pure rushers in the NFL this season. Among 47 qualifying backs, he ranks 17th in explosive run rate, third in missed tackles forced per attempt, and third in yards after contact per attempt. His value is closely tied to what he produces on the ground moving forward, and this week could be tough. Since Week 5, the Bears have not allowed an explosive run. They also have the best stuff rate, the third-best mark in yards after contact per attempt, and have given up the fewest fantasy points via rushing. Montgomery is a good bet for 12-15 touches this week, but if he doesn’t score, you’ll likely be disappointed. Week 11 Positional Value: RB2

Jahmyr Gibbs: Last week, Gibbs led the backfield with 58% of the snaps, 17 touches, and 112 total yards. Gibbs out-snapped, ran more routes, and saw more red-zone opportunities than Montgomery. With this being a tough rushing matchup this week, Gibbs should see a similar snapshare this week. The Lions could opt to “run through the passing game” with check downs instead of traditional carries. Gibbs is second in explosive run rate, fourth in missed tackles forced per attempt, and 12th in yards after contact per attempt. Since Week 5, the Bears have the best stuff rate, the third-best mark in yards after contact per attempt, and have given up the fewest fantasy points via rushing. Gibbs should destroy this defense through the air. Chicago has allowed the fourth-most receptions per game and the second-highest yards per reception to backs. Week 11 Positional Value: RB1

Austin Ekeler: Since Ekeler’s return, he has averaged 18.8 touches and 83.2 total yards while playing at least 63% of the snaps weekly. Ekeler’s elusiveness was compromised when he first returned from injury, but we’ve started to see his usual explosiveness over the last two games. Since Week 9 among 35 qualifying backs, Ekeler has been seventh in explosive run rate and 21st in missed tackles forced per attempt. Since Week 5, the Packers have remained a team that you can run the ball against. Over their last five games, Green Bay has had the fourth-highest explosive run rate, the 11th-highest missed tackle rate per attempt, and the ninth-highest yards after contact per attempt. Ekeler should shred this run defense. Week 11 Positional Value: RB1

Aaron Jones: Jones remains limited in practice as he plays through a hamstring issue. Over the last three weeks, Jones has played 51-57% of the snaps, averaging 17.3 touches and 66.4 total yards. Jones still isn’t healthy, and it’s showing up in his metrics. Since Week 8, Jones has had zero explosive runs. Among 46 qualifying backs, he has ranked 29th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 41st in yards after contact per attempt. Outside of the Lions imposing their will against the Bolts, this remains a strong run defense. Since Week 5, they have contained backs with the ninth-lowest explosive run rate, the fourth-lowest missed tackles per attempt, and ranking 15th in yards after contact per attempt. Week 11 Positional Value: RB2

A.J. Dillon: Since Week 8, Dillon has averaged 11 touches and 42.6 total yards. Dillon is the RB41 in fantasy, ranking 22nd in red zone touches and 32nd in weighted opportunities. He has been a low-end flex/RB3 all season that won’t blow your socks off. In a tough matchup, he’s better off sitting on the bench this week. Since Week 5, the Chargers have contained backs with the ninth-lowest explosive run rate, the fourth-lowest missed tackles per attempt, and ranking 15th in yards after contact per attempt. Week 11 Positional Value: Sit

Week 11 Tight End Start/Sit Grades

Luke Musgrave: Musgrave is the TE22 in fantasy points per game with two TE1 weeks this season. He has had a 13.4% target share and an 11.1% air-yard share. He is third in deep targets and 12th in red zone targets among tight ends (three red zone targets over his last two games). Musgrave has had at least 50 receiving yards in each of his last two games. Musgrave could have a banner day against a secondary that has allowed the fourth-highest fantasy points per game and the most receiving yards per game to tight ends. Week 11 Positional Value: TE1

Michael Mayer: Over the last two weeks, Mayer has had a 54.5% route run rate, an 11.5% target share, 1.00 YPRR, and a 13.2% first-read share. None of these metrics scream “PLAY ME IN FANTASY,” but the matchup for Mayer and the low threshold to be a TE1 in any week puts him on the streaming radar for Week 11. The Dolphins’ outside corners are fearsome, so featuring Mayer this week makes some sense, as well as Miami has been giving up production to the position. Miami has allowed the 11th-highest fantasy points per game and receiving yards per game to tight ends. Week 11 Positional Value: Matchup-based streamer

Daniel Bellinger: Over the last two weeks, Bellinger has had a 67.1% route run rate, a 10.7% target share, and a 7.9% first-read share. Yes, Bellinger is a thin play, but tight end is ugly. The only reason Bellinger makes the Primer this week is because Washington can’t stop tight ends either. Shocking, I know, since they can’t stop anyone from catching passes. Since Week 6, they have allowed the fifth-highest fantasy points per game and the tenth-highest receiving yards per game to tight ends. If Bellinger scores, he’ll be a TE1 this week. Week 11 Positional Value: Matchup-based streamer

Logan Thomas: Thomas is the TE13 in fantasy, ranking 11th in targets, 13th in air yards, and 12th in red zone targets. Thomas is just another run-of-the-mill TE2 this week. The Giants have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game and the eighth-lowest receiving yards per game to tight ends. Week 11 Positional Value: TE2

Jake Ferguson: Ferguson is the TE9 in fantasy, ranking first in red zone targets. He has six red zone looks in his last three games. Since Week 6, he has had a 14.5% target share, 1.27 YPRR, and a 14.8% first-read share. Since Week 6, the Panthers have had the third-highest rate of single-high (66.9%). Over the last four games against single-high, his target share has dipped to 9.6% while his YPRR decreased to 1.04, and his first-read share has been 9.5%. Carolina hasn’t been a favorable matchup for tight ends, as they have given up the seventh-fewest fantasy points per game and the third-lowest receiving yards per game to the position. Week 11 Positional Value: Borderline TE1

Chigoziem Okonkwo: Last week Okonkwo still drew a 15.4% target share, but his route run rate dropped to 51.2% which isn’t great. A TE2/matchup-based streaming option just got even riskier. Okonkwo hasn’t finished as a TE1 or surpassed 40 receiving yards in any game this season. He still has only two red zone targets both of which came in Week 5. Jacksonville is another good matchup for Oknokwo to likely disappoint in. Jacksonville has allowed the seventh-highest fantasy points per game and the second-highest yards per reception to tight ends. Week 11 Positional Value: TE2

Evan Engram: Engram is the TE8 in fantasy, ranking third in targets, fourth in target share, and 12th in air-yard share. He has been a hollow volume monster, ranking top-six in receptions, receiving yards, and yards after the catch, but he has only two red zone targets and zero touchdowns this season. Engram will have to wait another week for his first score of the season. Tennessee has allowed the seventh-lowest receiving yards per game to tight ends, and they remain the only defense in the NFL yet to allow a score to a tight end. Week 11 Positional Value: Borderline TE1

Trey McBride: Since Week 8, among 50 qualifying tight ends, McBride has ranked second in target share (31.5%), third in air-yard share (34.5%), second in YPRR (3.02), and first in first-read share (38.2%). He has been utterly filthy in nearly every efficiency and usage metric I can find. Since Week 6, Houston has had the third-highest rate of two high (60.3%). Since Week 8, against two-high (among 41 qualifying tight ends), McBride has been third in fantasy points per route run. Houston has allowed the highest fantasy points per game and the fifth-highest receiving yards per game to tight ends. Week 11 Positional Value: top-three TE

Dalton Schultz: Schultz was limited on Wednesday (hamstring). Schultz is the TE7 in fantasy, ranking sixth in red zone targets. Among 51 qualifying tight ends, he is 13th in target share (16.6%), ninth in YPRR (1.80), first in end zone targets (eight), and 15th in first-read share (16.7%). Since Week 6, the Cardinals have had the fourth-highest rate of two high (57.7%). Against two high, he has had a 22.2% target share, 2.04 YPRR, and a 23.1% first-read share. Among 34 qualifying tight ends, he ranks fourth in fantasy points per route run against two high. Arizona has allowed the 11th-highest yards per reception to tight ends. Week 11 Positional Value: TE1

Cade Otton: Otton is the TE18 this season. He has had his streamer-worthy weeks with three TE1 weeks this season and six red zone targets. This isn’t one of those weeks. The 49ers have shut down tight ends, allowing the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game and the second-lowest receiving yard per game. Week 11 Positional Value: TE2

George Kittle: Kittle remains one of the best tight ends in the NFL. He is the TE5 in fantasy, ranking second in deep targets and eighth in red zone looks. He is third in receiving yards and eighth in yards after the catch among tight ends. Over their last three games, Tampa Bay has the tenth-highest single-high rate (57.9%). In Samuel’s full games, against single-high, Kittle has had a 17.9% target share, a 22.8% air-yard share, 3.28 YPRR, and a 20.3% first-read share. All of those usage marks are second on the team, behind only Aiyuk. Smash this week, Kittle. Smash. Tampa Bay has been ripped to shreds by tight ends. Since Week 7, they have allowed the seventh-highest fantasy points per game and the fourth-most receiving yards per game to the position. Week 11 Positional Value: TE1

Week 11 Defense / Special Teams Start/Sit Grades

Week 11 Kicker Start/Sit Grades