As the fantasy football season nears its conclusion, players face critical decisions for Week 18, especially with several star athletes sidelined. Among those still in action are Rico Dowdle, Zach Charbonnet, and Julius Chestnut, all of whom have unique outlooks for fantasy managers.

Rico Dowdle stands out as a strong RB2 option this week. He has been impressive lately, averaging over 103 rushing yards per game in the last five weeks, along with three receiving touchdowns. Facing a Washington Commanders defense that has struggled against the run, Dowdle is expected to capitalize on this matchup.

Zach Charbonnet, while productive with eight rushing touchdowns this season, faces a tough Los Angeles Rams defense that has effectively limited running backs. This makes him a low-end RB2 with limited upside. In contrast, Julius Chestnut is a risky option for fantasy players. Despite being the likely starter for the Tennessee Titans due to injuries in the backfield, he faces a Houston Texans team that has been tough against running backs, making him a player to avoid this week.

As Week 18 of the NFL season approaches, fantasy football enthusiasts are on the hunt for value plays to enhance their lineups. This week’s analysis focuses on key players across various positions who offer under-the-radar potential for DFS competitions. Selecting these players can provide the flexibility needed to incorporate high-end talent elsewhere in your roster.

Quarterback Bryce Young from the Carolina Panthers is highlighted as a solid value option against the Atlanta Falcons, despite a recent disappointing performance. Young has averaged 22.6 PPR points since Week 13, and his matchup against a Falcons defense that struggles against quarterbacks adds to his appeal. On the other side, rookie Michael Penix Jr. also presents value as he looks to capitalize on a favorable matchup against a vulnerable Carolina secondary.

In the running back category, Kenneth Gainwell of the Philadelphia Eagles is positioned for a significant role with the team likely resting starters. Ameer Abdullah from the Los Angeles Chargers and Julius Chestnut from the Houston Texans are also recommended due to their potential workload and favorable matchups, especially with injuries impacting their respective teams.

Wide receivers Jalen McMillan and Olamide Zaccheaus are noted for their recent performances and the importance of their upcoming games. McMillan has become a reliable target for his team, while Zaccheaus has been instrumental in the Commanders' offense. Lastly, tight ends Tucker Kraft and Zach Ertz are suggested for their ability to exploit defensive weaknesses, with Ertz coming off a strong performance in Week 17.

As the fantasy football season approaches its conclusion, savvy players are looking towards the waiver wire to bolster their rosters for Week 18. Key targets include Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth, who has emerged as a reliable option despite his team's inconsistent passing game. Currently ranked as TE10 for the year, Freiermuth has found the end zone five times this season, with three touchdowns in his last five games. His recent performance includes an average of 4.4 receptions and 42.8 receiving yards per game, making him a prime candidate for fantasy managers looking to capitalize on favorable matchups.

Freiermuth's upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals, who have allowed the most fantasy points to tight ends this season, presents a compelling reason for his addition in all league formats. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan is also making waves, ranking as WR10 over the past month. With an average of 4.8 receptions and 60.5 receiving yards per game, he is another valuable asset to consider.

Other noteworthy pickups include Clyde Edwards-Helaire of the New Orleans Saints, who recently debuted after joining the team from the Kansas City Chiefs, and Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut, who has seen limited action this season. Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson is also on the radar as he looks to return from injury, while Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is aiming to finish strong after a tumultuous season. With the fantasy playoffs in full swing, these players could provide the necessary boost for teams looking to secure a championship.

As the fantasy football season approaches its climax, players are scrambling to enhance their rosters through strategic waiver wire pickups. Highlighted this week is Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan, who has surged into the spotlight as a top performer. Over the last month, McMillan has averaged nearly 5 receptions and 60.5 receiving yards per game, positioning him as the WR10 in fantasy rankings. His impressive streak includes six touchdowns in just four games, making him a must-add for any fantasy player looking to bolster their lineup ahead of a critical matchup against the New Orleans Saints.

Other notable players on the waiver wire include Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut, who has struggled to make an impact this season but may see increased opportunities. Meanwhile, Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson is recovering from an ankle injury, with hopes of returning for the season finale against the San Francisco 49ers. Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has shown promise after a rocky start to the season, while teammates Mike Boone and Raheem Blackshear are also vying for attention as potential pickups due to injuries affecting their counterparts. As the season winds down, savvy fantasy managers will need to act quickly to secure these valuable assets.

As the NFL season winds down, fantasy football managers are scouring the waiver wire for last-minute additions to bolster their rosters. Week 18 presents a crucial opportunity for those looking to secure valuable players before the playoffs begin. Among the notable pickups is Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who recently joined the New Orleans Saints after a tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs. In his debut against the Las Vegas Raiders, he recorded five rushing attempts for 20 yards and two receptions for 10 yards, totaling four fantasy points. With Alvin Kamara likely sidelined due to a groin injury, Edwards-Helaire may step into a more prominent role against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, although he remains a risky flex option given the Buccaneers' strong defensive performance in recent weeks.

Another player to consider is Julius Chestnut of the Tennessee Titans, who has struggled to make an impact this season, averaging just 0.7 fantasy points per game. Despite his low output, he could see increased opportunities as the Titans look to finish strong. Meanwhile, Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson is attempting to return from an ankle injury, which has kept him out of the last two games. His availability will be crucial as the Cardinals face the San Francisco 49ers in their season finale.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has had a rollercoaster season but has shown promise since reclaiming his starting position. He is a potential addition for teams looking for quarterback depth. Additionally, Mike Boone and Raheem Blackshear from the Panthers are also on the radar, especially with Chuba Hubbard's recent injury, which has opened the door for increased roles in the backfield. As fantasy managers prepare for the final week of the regular season, these players could provide the necessary boost to secure a playoff spot.