The Ultimate Fantasy Football Championship Week Guide: Must-Have Pickups

As Championship Week unfolds, it’s time to make those final strategic moves that could earn you the coveted crown in your fantasy football league. Whether you’re filling in gaps left by injuries or maximizing your roster’s potential, here are the top players to prioritize and why they deserve a spot on your team.

Running Backs to Watch

Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints (46%)
With Alvin Kamara sidelined by a groin injury, Miller becomes the primary option in a struggling Saints offense. Despite the team’s overall challenges, Miller’s recent performance—78 yards on 19 carries and a touchdown over Weeks 14-15—proves he’s a viable flex option against the Raiders in Week 17.

Alexander Mattison & Ameer Abdullah, Las Vegas Raiders (48% & 23%)
As the Raiders’ top backs with Sincere McCormick and Zamir White on IR, Mattison and Abdullah are must-haves. Mattison’s 56 total yards and a touchdown and Abdullah’s 85 scrimmage yards and a score highlight their balanced contributions. Facing the Saints’ inconsistent defense, both are solid flex plays.

Gus Edwards, Los Angeles Chargers (52%)
While technically over the 50% threshold, Edwards is worth mentioning. His 15 touches and two touchdowns last week against Denver make him a prime option. With J.K. Dobbins possibly returning, monitor Edwards’ role closely.

Wide Receivers Taking Off

Jalen McMillan, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (45%)
McMillan’s late-season surge—four touchdowns in his last three games—cements his value as the Buccaneers’ No. 2 target. He’s poised for another strong performance against Carolina’s defense.

Hollywood Brown, Kansas City Chiefs (32%)
Returning from a shoulder injury, Brown’s chemistry with Patrick Mahomes was evident in his eight targets for 45 yards last week. He’s a strong WR3/flex play against Pittsburgh.

Rashod Bateman, Baltimore Ravens (22%)
Bateman has thrived this season with eight touchdowns on 39 receptions. Facing a Texans defense that struggles against receivers, Bateman is a high-upside play.

Tight Ends to Test

Chig Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans (6%)
Okonkwo’s 11 targets and 81 yards last week signal his growing role in the Titans’ offense. With a favorable matchup against Jacksonville, he’s a top waiver option for those needing help at tight end.

Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans (44%)
As the Texans’ receiving corps faces injuries, Schultz’s role expands. He’s a reliable option against a Ravens defense that allows significant production to tight ends.

Quarterback Gems

Drake Maye, New England Patriots (13%)
Maye’s dual-threat ability and consistent scoring make him a great pickup for a Week 17 matchup against the Chargers’ porous defense.

Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (5%)
Young’s December surge includes three games with both passing and rushing touchdowns. Facing Tampa Bay’s vulnerable defense, Young is a strong deep-league option.

Defensive Standouts

Miami Dolphins (47%)
The Dolphins’ top-10 defense takes on Cleveland’s Dorian Thompson-Robinson-led offense. Given DTR’s struggles, Miami could be the week’s best defensive play.

Final Thoughts

Championship Week is where strategy meets opportunity. With these targeted pickups, you can fill roster gaps and maximize your team’s potential. Good luck, and may the fantasy gods smile upon you!