Wide receivers are always a pivotal piece of any DFS lineup, but Week 18 throws some extra chaos into the mix. With teams either fighting for playoff spots, resting starters or simply playing for pride, deciphering which wideouts to trust becomes more art than science. As we dive into the final slate of the regular season, I’ll break down Week 18 wide receivers based on our NFL DFS projections and NFL DFS ownership projections.
Week 18 NFL DFS Wide Receivers: Brian Thomas Jr. & More
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Top-Tier Wide Receivers
Mike Evans ($8,000)
Evans tops the list this week, and for good reason. He’s been a monster all season, and the Buccaneers absolutely need this game. Plus, Evans is just 85 yards away from tying Jerry Rice’s record for the most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. There’s no way Tampa Bay isn’t going to force-feed him the ball to hit that milestone. He’s in a phenomenal spot and pairs well with Baker Mayfield in a game the Buccaneers have to win. Evans is expensive, but the ceiling is undeniable.
Brian Thomas Jr. ($7,300)
Thomas has emerged as one of the most reliable DFS options in the second half of the season. With five straight games of double-digit targets, his connection with Mac Jones is undeniable. Even in a low-volume offense — Jones attempted just 22 passes last week — Thomas continues to dominate the target share. He’s a lock for heavy usage again this week and a fantastic pivot from Evans for those looking to diversify lineups.
Malik Nabers ($7,100)
Nabers erupted last week with the best game of his career and now faces a likely matchup against the Eagles backups. It’s hard to ignore his upside in this spot, especially with Drew Lock under center for an offense that’s still willing to sling it.
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Mid-Tier Wide Receivers
Jaxon Smith-Njigba ($6,100)
Smith-Njigba could become one of the best mid-range plays of the week. Metcalf has been banged up, and the Seahawks may choose to rest him, opening the door for Smith-Njigba to command a larger role. At just $6,100, Smith-Njigba’s talent and potential target share make him an excellent value in a range that isn’t overly crowded.
Drake London ($6,500)
London offers another intriguing option in this mid-range tier. He saw 13 targets in a wild game last week and continues to be the alpha on the outside for Atlanta. While touchdowns have been hard to come by, his target volume keeps him in play, especially if you’re looking for exposure to the Falcons without rostering Bijan Robinson.
Courtland Sutton ($6,400)
Sutton has been the Broncos’ most reliable receiver this season, and while Marvin Mims stole the show last week, Sutton still delivered a respectable performance with 55 yards and a touchdown. He’s a great bounce-back candidate in a spot where Denver should continue to rely on him as its primary red zone threat.
Low-Tier Wide Receivers
Josh Downs ($5,300)
Last week was rough for Downs, but I’m not deterred. He was one of my highest-exposed players in Week 17, and I’m going right back to him here. The Colts receiving corps is a carousel, and Downs could easily find himself back at the center of the offense this week. With Joe Flacco (or whoever else) under center, Downs at $5,300 is a solid option with significant upside.
Alec Pierce ($5,000)
Speaking of Colts receivers, Pierce is another option worth considering. He delivered a massive six-catch, 122-yard, one-touchdown performance on nine targets last week. Pierce is the ultimate home run hitter, and while his role can be inconsistent, his price and big-play ability make him a strong tournament option.
Calvin Ridley ($5,400)
Ridley is a lower-tier option who could pop this week. Jacksonville has shown it is willing to get him involved, especially in situations where the pressure is off. If you’re looking for upside in a value range, Ridley could provide it.
Ricky Pearsall ($4,100)
Pearsall is my favorite punt play of the week. The rookie had a breakout game last game with 10 targets and several highlight-reel catches. With the season winding down and little to lose, the 49ers should keep feeding Pearsall to see what they have in their young talent.
Olamide Zaccheaus ($4,500)
Zaccheaus is another cheap play to consider. He’s seen increased involvement recently and could benefit from a favorable game environment. At this price point, Zaccheaus offers solid value as a low-owned pivot in GPPs.
