Fantasy football: Players to start, sit for NFL Week 17

The Post’s Drew Loftis evaluates all the relevant fantasy football news ahead of Week 17 of the 2020 NFL season.

Big Weeks

Kirk Cousins QB, Vikings, at Lions (FanDuel $7,700/DraftKings $6,300)

With likely no Dalvin Cook, possibly no Alexander Mattison, against a Lions team that is the most generous to opposing QBs, we’re expecting a heavier reliance on the passing game. Further, we also expect Justin Jefferson to get plenty of Cousins’ attention, with nothing on the line and a chance to give the rookie a chance to play the lead role with the future in mind.

Rodney Smith RB, Panthers, vs, Saints (FD $4,900/DK $4,000)

No Christian McCaffrey, likely no Mike Davis, Smith is expected to get the lion’s share of the work. But do be aware, it is a tough matchup, though we don’t expect the most spirited effort from the Saints — with a division title secured (home-field seldom produces inspired performances).

Malcolm Brown RB, Rams, vs. Cardinals (FD $5,600/DK $4,300)

There’s no Darrell Henderson Jr., and we would be surprised if Cam Akers plays. So expect a heavy dose of Brown, to take the pressure off untested backup QB John Wolford.

Mike Williams WR, Chargers, at Chiefs (FD $5,900/DK $5,000)

We expect something similar to the 10 targets he got last week with Keenan Allen out. And with the Chiefs having nothing to play for, it neutralizes what otherwise would be a difficult matchup.

Small Weaks

Josh Allen QB, Bills, vs. Dolphins (FD $8,200/DK $7,600)

If the Bills get up big or down big, don’t be surprised if Allen gets pulled. There is no built-in advantage for Buffalo winning — no bye week at stake and no identifiably preferred first-round playoff opponent.

Aaron Jones RB, Packers, at Bears (FD $8,000/DK $7,100)

Tough matchup vs. a stiff Chicago run defense, and especially after last week, we don’t think A.J. Dillon is going to disappear from the game plan — especially if it helps keep Jones fresh for the playoffs.

Robert Woods WR, Rams, vs. Cardinals (FD $6,800/DK $6,300)

Remember a few players ago when we mention untested backup QB John Wolford is starting for the Rams? Yeah, well there’s that, and with no Cooper Kupp, Arizona will be able to focus extra attention on Woods.

Austin Hooper TE, Browns, vs. Steelers (FD $5,200/DK $3,800)

Coming off a 15-target game last week. But reminder: This week the Browns will have bona fide, professional, real-life wide receivers on the field. Oh, and the Steelers are pretty tough against tight ends — second-stingiest in the league and just two TE touchdowns allowed all year.

Fantasy Insanity Daily Duel

Site: FanDuel

Slate: main (15 games)

Entry: $4.44

Pot: $1M

Top prize: $300K

Drew’s Crew

QB: Lamar Jackson (Bal, at Cin) $9,000

RB: Latavius Murray (NO, at Car) $5,500

RB: Malcolm Brown (LAR, vs. Ari) $5,600

WR: Justin Jefferson (Min, at Det) $8,000

WR: Marquise Brown (Bal, at Cin) $6,000

WR: Davante Adams (GB, at Chi) $9,300

TE: Rob Gronkowski (TB, vs. Atl) $6,100

Flex: Ezekiel Elliott (Dal, at NYG) $6,500

DEF: Chargers (LAC, at KC) $3,500

Wilk’s Warriors

QB: Kirk Cousins (Min, at Det) $7,700

RB: Ty Johnson (NYJ, at NE) $5,000

RB: Derrick Henry (Ten, at Hou) $10,200

WR: Justin Jefferson (Min, at Det) $8,000

WR: Sterling Shepard (NYG, vs. Dal) $5,500

WR: Marquez Callaway (NO, at Car) $5,000

TE: Robert Tonyan (GB, at Chi) $6,300

Flex: Jonathan Taylor (Ind, vs. Jac) $8,400

DEF: Jets (NYJ, at NE) $3,500

Follow @NYPost_Loftis and @NYPost_Roto on Twitter for any late roster changes.

Season risked: $125

Winnings: Jarad $100, Drew $100]