'Week 7 brought chaos across the league, with several star players underperforming and a few new fantasy heroes emerging. From Quinshon Judkins' breakout to the Rams' five-touchdown showcase from Matthew Stafford, this slate offered plenty of shakeups for fantasy managers. As injuries and bye weeks continue to thin rosters, every role and usage trend matters more than ever. Stay sharp using the Rotowire Depth Charts and Rotowire Weekly Projections to track who's rising and who's fading in real time.
Rams 35 Jaguars 7
The Rams jumped ahead early and never looked back, powered by a crisp passing attack even without Puka Nacua (ankle). Matthew Stafford threw for modest yardage but connected for five touchdowns, showcasing elite efficiency. Stafford is having a great year and is a QB1. Davante Adams was the primary beneficiary, catching just five passes but turning three into scores. He's gaining rhythm with Stafford and could easily climb back into top-15 wide receiver territory by fantasy playoff time, even when Nacua returns. Despite a quiet outing, Kyren Williams remains a weekly RB1 based on workload and scoring opportunities.
The Jaguars continue to unravel offensively. The run game has vanished, leaving Trevor Lawrence to force plays in a disjointed passing attack. Rookie wideout Travis Hunter salvaged his day with a touchdown while surpassing 100 yards, most of which came after the outcome was decided, but he remains a risky flex option rather than a breakout candidate. Travis Etienne's diminished role is a growing concern, making him more of a matchup-dependent flex than an RB1. Brian Thomas stayed quiet following last week's success, and Lawrence continues to project as a middling QB2 with occasional upside. Thomas is an upside WR3 after having one big game in seven tries.
Bears 26. Saints 14
The Bears controlled the game from start to finish, leaning heavily on the ground attack with 40 rushing attempts to just 26 passes. D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai powered the offense, with Swift erupting for 138 scrimmage yards and a touchdown — his second consecutive big game. Coach Ben Johnson seems to have unlocked the veteran after the bye week, making Swift a firm top-18 running back with RB1 upside. Even though Chicago might not often play with double-digit leads, Swift's role appears secure. DJ Moore led the team in receiving but remains unreliable, while Rome Odunze's second consecutive modest outing drops him into the WR2 range. Moore can stay on fantasy benches in most leagues until further notice.
The Saints showed life briefly in the middle of the game, but the offense was otherwise overwhelmed. Chris Olave did most of his damage across two drives, finishing with five catches for 98 yards and both of New Orleans' touchdowns. It was his first true breakout of the season, reaffirming his safe PPR floor and strong WR2 value. Juwan Johnson resurfaced with 79 yards on five receptions, putting him back on the streaming radar for tight end-needy teams. Meanwhile, Alvin Kamara's inefficiency continues to frustrate fantasy managers — just 29 yards on 14 touches. He's now more of a volume-dependent and shaky RB2 than a reliable weekly anchor.
Browns 31 Dolphins 6
The Dolphins sold out to stop Cleveland's rushing attack, and while they succeeded in slowing the pace, they couldn't stop Quinshon Judkins where it mattered. The rookie managed just 84 yards on 25 carries but powered his way to three touchdowns, producing his first true fantasy explosion. He's now locked into RB1 status as the centerpiece of the offense. Outside of Judkins, there were no other reliable fantasy contributors. Harold Fannin led the team with only 36 receiving yards, and the passing game remains a non-factor.
Miami's struggles continued in miserable fashion. Tua Tagovailoa was erratic in the weather, completing 12 of 23 passes with three interceptions, and he's no longer usable outside of superflex formats. De'Von Achane was the lone bright spot, totaling 96 scrimmage yards and three receptions, though his ceiling is capped in such a stagnant offense. Still, Achane remains a top-10 running back. Jaylen Waddle managed just one catch for 15 yards but should rebound in better conditions against softer defenses. Darren Waller left the game with an injury, adding yet another headache to an already broken passing attack.
Patriots 31 Titans 13
After a sluggish start, the Patriots caught fire and dominated the rest of the way. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye continued to impress, throwing two touchdowns and rushing for 62 yards. His dual-threat ability makes him one of the most stable fantasy starters in the league, even when the box score doesn't explode. Rhamondre Stevenson reclaimed control of the backfield, logging 88 yards and a touchdown as the only back with more than five carries. He remains a short-term flex play given New England's unpredictable usage patterns. Stefon Diggs paced the team with seven targets and 69 yards, while Kayshon Boutte turned two looks into 55 yards and a score. Boutte's still too volatile to trust outside of deep leagues, but Diggs is a WR2.
Tennessee's offense was once again ineffective, managing only a brief spark early before being completely shut down. The backfield has devolved into a full-blown timeshare between Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears, with both offering limited PPR flex value primarily in negative game scripts. Rookie wideout Chimere Dike led the team in receiving and continues to flash potential, he's worth a stash in deeper leagues as the Titans look toward youth. If Ridley gets moved before the trade deadline (I have no idea if that happens), Dike's role could expand quickly.
Chiefs 31 Raiders 0
Kansas City looked every bit like its vintage self in this blowout. Patrick Mahomes was sharp and efficient, spreading the ball around while reminding everyone he's still capable of being the top fantasy quarterback the rest of the way. Rashee Rice immediately reestablished himself as the focal point of the passing game, leading the team with 42 yards and two touchdowns on heavy usage. Travis Kelce posted a 44-yard catch early but finished with just 54 yards overall, taking more of a background role as the offense diversified. Meanwhile, rookie Xavier Worthy managed three receptions for 35 yards, though his fantasy ceiling is clearly limited with Rice commanding primary attention. Worthy remains a boom-or-bust stash for deeper leagues, while Mahomes and Rice are weekly must-starts in all formats. Isiah Pacheco continues to improve each week, and he's back in the RB2 conversation after dominating backfield work for the second consecutive week.
For the Raiders, this was a lost cause from the opening drive. Missing both Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers, the passing game completely collapsed. Geno Smith threw for only 67 yards. Rookie Ashton Jeanty was the lone player to surpass 30 yards from scrimmage, totaling 34 on seven touches. There's simply no usable fantasy value in Las Vegas outside of Jeanty as a speculative deep-league hold until the offense gets healthy. Of course, Brock Bowers (knee) will be fine when he returns.
Eagles 28 Vikings 22
The Eagles' run game remains stuck in neutral as Saquon Barkley once again struggled, gaining just 44 yards on 18 carries with no scores. Until he starts finding the end zone, Barkley can't be treated as an RB1. Fortunately, Jalen Hurts picked up the slack with 326 yards and three touchdown passes. DeVonta Smith erupted for a career-high 183 yards and a touchdown, while A.J. Brown produced 121 yards and two scores of his own. Both remain must-starts despite extreme weekly volatility.
Minnesota's offense benefited from constant catch-up mode, allowing for some big fantasy days despite Carson Wentz's two interceptions. Jordan Addison torched the Eagles' secondary for 128 yards on 12 targets and is firmly entrenched as a weekly WR2. Justin Jefferson's five catches for 79 yards qualify as a floor performance, and he remains a WR1. Jordan Mason salvaged his day with a short touchdown but could lose work if Aaron Jones (hamstring, IR) returns soon. T.J. Hockenson posted a respectable six catches for 43 yards but remains more of a mid-tier tight end option given the current offensive inconsistency.
Panthers 13 Jets 6
As expected, Carolina's backfield committee limited fantasy upside. Rico Dowdle led the way with 79 rushing yards and a 17-yard reception but still produced only modest PPR value. Chuba Hubbard turned 16 touches into 55 yards, keeping this a frustrating timeshare unless the team commits to one as the clear lead. Bryce Young struggled again before exiting with an ankle injury. The lone bright spot was rookie Xavier Legette, who delivered nine catches for 92 yards and a touchdown — an encouraging sign but likely a one-week spike. Tetairoa McMillan managed just 33 yards on five targets, one of his quietest outings of the season. Despite that, he continues to offer a steady PPR floor when the offense functions even moderately well. McMillan's long-term outlook remains excellent, but until the quarterback situation improves, his ceiling is capped. Once Carolina stabilizes under center, he could emerge as a legitimate fantasy star.
The Jets' offensive woes continued as Justin Fields struggled once again before being benched in the third quarter. His starting job is now in serious jeopardy, and fantasy managers in superflex formats should consider stashing Tyrod Taylor as a speculative add. Regardless of who's under center, this offense remains stagnant. No skill player topped nine PPR points, and Breece Hall managed just 52 yards on 13 touches. His best hope for renewed fantasy relevance might be a trade before the deadline.
Broncos 33 Giants 32
If you turned this game off after three quarters, you missed one of the most incredible finishes of the season. Trailing 19-0 at home, Denver erupted for 33 fourth-quarter points, ultimately winning on a last-second field goal. Bo Nix went from a total dud to a fantasy superstar in one quarter, finishing with 279 passing yards, 48 rushing yards and four total touchdowns (two passing, two rushing). He remains a volatile, boom-or-bust QB1 option. Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims posted nearly identical lines — six catches each with Sutton slightly ahead in yardage (87 to 85). Sutton is a steady WR2, while Mims holds flex value with explosive upside. Tight end Evan Engram provided his usual steady floor with five catches for 42 yards, while J.K. Dobbins totaled 81 rushing yards but failed to score, keeping him in the touchdown-dependent RB2 category.
Credit goes to coach Brian Daboll and rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart for keeping New York's offense dynamic despite personnel limitations. Dart has been a legitimate QB1 since taking over the starting job, adding another stellar line with 283 yards and four total touchdowns. Even with limited rushing output (11 yards), his efficiency and command make him a weekly starter. Cam Skattebo continued his breakout campaign with over 90 scrimmage yards and another touchdown, firmly entrenching himself as a reliable RB1. Against Denver's strong secondary, Wan'Dale Robinson stood out, commanding 12 targets and catching six passes for 95 yards. Unless the Giants acquire another top wideout before the trade deadline, Robinson should be viewed as a PPR WR2.
Colts 38 Chargers 24
The Colts jumped ahead early and never looked back, turning in one of their most complete offensive efforts of the season. Jonathan Taylor remained on fire, racking up 142 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns as he continued to look every bit like a top-tier RB1. Daniel Jones delivered a strong performance, throwing touchdown passes to both Michael Pittman and Tyler Warren. Alec Pierce paced the team with 98 yards on 10 targets and is emerging as a viable flex option in deep formats. All key Colts skill players can be started with confidence, regardless of opponent.
The Chargers, despite being dominated early, produced massive fantasy numbers thanks to a relentless second-half passing barrage. Justin Herbert attempted 55 passes, piling up 420 yards and three touchdowns in comeback mode. Keenan Allen and Ladd McConkey continue to function as volume-heavy, high-floor starters, combining for 20 receptions and more than 180 yards. Oronde Gadsden delivered another strong outing with 164 yards and a touchdown on nine targets, following last week's breakout and he now may be pushing into TE1 consideration. Quentin Johnston's production has cooled, but he remains a usable WR3 with touchdown upside in this high-volume attack. Overall, Herbert's aerial workload keeps all of his primary receivers fantasy relevant most weeks.
Cowboys 44 Commanders 22
For once, Dallas didn't need its defense to bail it out, nor did it have to overcome self-inflicted mistakes. Dak Prescott was sharp and efficient, attempting only 30 passes but turning them into 264 yards and three touchdowns. He continues to operate as one of fantasy's most reliable quarterbacks. With reduced passing volume, the trio of CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens and Jake Ferguson delivered solid outings. Lamb led the way with 110 yards and a score, Ferguson found the end zone twice, and Pickens added 82 yards. This remains a high-floor, high-ceiling group every week. Javonte Williams also got back on track, rushing for 116 yards and a touchdown to maintain his status as a locked-in fantasy starter.
Washington fell behind early and never recovered, especially after quarterback Jayden Daniels exited in the third quarter with a hamstring injury. Before leaving, Daniels still salvaged his fantasy day by throwing and running for touchdowns. With both Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel sidelined, the Commanders' offense simply lacked firepower. Zach Ertz led the team with seven targets and a touchdown, giving him short-term fantasy relevance as long as Samuel remains out. Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt continues to slide after his Week 5 breakout, managing only 32 yards in this one. He's best viewed as a risky flex play until he proves capable of consistent production against tougher defenses.
Packers 23 Cardinals 20
Fantasy managers were holding their breath Saturday when reports surfaced that Josh Jacobs might be a game-time decision with a calf injury and illness. Fortunately, he suited up and delivered in a big way, finishing with 58 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner in the final minutes. Jacobs looks past his health concerns and should again be treated as a weekly RB1. Jordan Love had an uninspiring outing with 179 yards and one touchdown, but Romeo Doubs (6-72) and Tucker Kraft (5-58-1) provided stability in the passing game. Doubs has quietly become a steady top-40 PPR receiver, while Kraft remains a strong starting tight end, though his target volume can fluctuate.
Arizona led most of the way but couldn't hang on late against the more balanced Packers. With Kyler Murray sidelined, Jacoby Brissett continued his efficient stretch, throwing for 279 yards and two touchdowns, both to Trey McBride, who also posted 10 catches for 74 yards. McBride is thriving with Brissett and is worth the draft pick used on him. Marvin Harrison managed 58 yards on just two receptions, reinforcing his boom-or-bust nature but still deserving weekly lineup status. In the backfield, Bam Knight took advantage of positive game flow with 64 scrimmage yards on 17 touches. When Arizona plays from behind, Michael Carter should see more passing work, while Knight projects as the primary early down option in neutral or favorable scripts. Don't be surprised if the passing game takes a step back when Murray takes his job back.
Injuries
- Brian Thomas suffered an arm injury late in the game, and it's unclear as to whether he could have returned had the game been closer.
- Darren Waller left with a chest injury.
- Bryce Young suffered an ankle injury.
- Kendre Miller injured his knee.
- Cole Kmet sustained a back injury.
For continuing coverage of player health updates, visit the RotoWire Injury Report.
Conclusion
Week 7 reinforced how quickly roles can shift in fantasy football — from D'Andre Swift's resurgence to Travis Kelce's reduced spotlight. As we move into the thick of the season, staying proactive on waiver claims and lineup tweaks is critical. Keep an eye on evolving backfield splits, emerging rookies, and quarterback changes that could reshape fantasy production down the stretch. For full rest-of-season evaluations, visit the Rotowire Weekly Projections and stay tuned for next week's NFL Reactions — your go-to spot for every NFL recap, lineup takeaway and fantasy trend you can't afford to miss.
