Week 7 Fantasy Football Start and Sit Tips for Thursday Night
The upcoming Thursday Night Football clash features the Pittsburgh Steelers taking on the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 7. As the Steelers aim for a strong 5-1 record, the Bengals are struggling without their star quarterback Joe Burrow. Fantasy managers have to make crucial decisions regarding their lineups for this matchup.
Strong Start Candidates
Jaylen Warren, RB (PIT)
Jaylen Warren is set to be a solid option this week. With recent statistics showing 11 carries for 52 yards and two catches for 11 yards in Week 6, his efficiency is impressive. He has accumulated 176 rushing yards and three touchdowns so far this season, along with 102 receiving yards from 20 receptions.
The Bengals’ defense is ranked poorly against the run, allowing 2.13 yards before contact. This favorable matchup positions Warren to achieve over 80 scrimmage yards and potentially score. In PPR formats, his dual-threat capability makes him a must-start.
DK Metcalf, WR (PIT)
DK Metcalf has emerged as a key player for the Steelers. Last week, he secured four receptions for 95 yards and a touchdown, bringing his total to 356 yards and four touchdowns this season. His consistent target share and red-zone opportunities make him a strong WR1 candidate.
Given the Bengals’ struggles against the pass, allowing the second-most passing yards per game, Metcalf should have another high-scoring performance in Week 7. He is projected to contribute over 15 PPR points this week.
Tee Higgins, WR (CIN)
Tee Higgins showed improvement last week with five receptions for 62 yards. With 11 receptions and a touchdown in his last three games, Higgins is gaining momentum. As the WR2 for the Bengals, he should see consistent targets in a matchup that favors passing volume.
The Steelers have struggled against secondary receivers, and Higgins could score between 10 to 14 PPR points this week. He should be regarded as a strong WR2 option for fantasy lineups.
Players to Sit
Joe Flacco, QB (CIN)
Despite a decent performance in Week 6, Joe Flacco remains a risky choice. His average of only 5.0 yards per attempt causes concern, especially against a robust Steelers pass rush. With low projections around 12-15 fantasy points, he should be sat outside of deeper formats.
Chase Brown, RB (CIN)
Chase Brown has underperformed this season, with only 16 total carries since Week 1. His productivity is further hindered by a difficult matchup against the Steelers, who rank among the top defenses against running backs. Fantasy managers should look to bench Brown in Week 7.
Kenneth Gainwell, RB (PIT)
Kenneth Gainwell has seen limited touches since the return of Warren. His low snap share and rushing attempts make him unreliable against the Bengals this week. With the likelihood of better performances from Warren, Gainwell is best left on the bench.
Jonnu Smith, TE (PIT)
Jonnu Smith has struggled, with limited receptions and yardage this season. His lack of production and declining snap counts make him a low-priority start. Even against a vulnerable Bengals defense, Smith does not offer enough upside to justify a roster spot.
Noah Fant, TE (CIN)
Noah Fant has displayed efficiency but lacks volume, making him a high-risk option. With limited routes run and unutilized potential, he should only be considered as a desperation play in deeper leagues. Week 7 doesn’t offer favorable prospects for Fant’s contribution.
On the Fence
Aaron Rodgers, QB (PIT)
Aaron Rodgers presents a mixed bag for fantasy managers this week. Coming off a solid game, his passing volume is expected to depend on the Steelers’ run game. The Bengals’ pass defense could provide opportunities for big plays, although Rodgers’ inconsistencies create uncertainty.
He may be considered for streaming but is best used as a QB2 or in matchup-specific scenarios. Managers should be cautious with their expectations this week.
