Full Breakdown
Week 17 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Quarterbacks and Running Backs
12/28/2025, 7:10:19 AM
Quarterback Matchup: Brock Purdy vs. Baker Mayfield
In Week 17 of the NFL season, fantasy football managers face critical lineup decisions, particularly regarding quarterbacks Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers and Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Purdy is coming off a standout performance in Week 16, where he completed 25 of 34 passes for 295 yards and five touchdowns against the Indianapolis Colts, earning him the top quarterback ranking for that week. He aims to maintain this momentum against the Chicago Bears, who have allowed the 18th fewest passing yards per game this season.
Conversely, Mayfield's performance has significantly declined in recent weeks. After a strong start to the season, he has struggled, throwing for under 200 yards in five of his last six games, including just 145 yards and one touchdown against the Carolina Panthers last week. He will face the Miami Dolphins, who have allowed the 14th fewest passing yards per game. Given Purdy's recent form and Mayfield's struggles, the recommendation is to start Purdy and sit Mayfield in Week 17.
Running Back Matchup: Omarion Hampton vs. Breece Hall
Another crucial decision for fantasy managers involves running backs Omarion Hampton of the Los Angeles Chargers and Breece Hall of the New York Jets. Hampton is coming off a solid performance against the Dallas Cowboys, where he rushed for 85 yards and a touchdown. He will face the Houston Texans, who have one of the best rushing defenses in the NFL, allowing the fourth fewest rushing yards per game.
In contrast, Hall has struggled significantly over the past three weeks, failing to exceed 60 rushing yards and not scoring a touchdown. He faces the New England Patriots, who have allowed the sixth fewest rushing yards per game. Despite the tough matchup for both players, Hampton's recent form makes him the preferable option over Hall, who has shown inconsistent performance against weaker defenses.
Official Statements & Responses
Gray Deyo, a sportswriter for Sports Illustrated, emphasizes the importance of recent performance in making fantasy decisions, stating, "Purdy is in the midst of a heater in fantasy football," while noting Mayfield's decline: "It feels too big a stretch to start Mayfield this week over Purdy."
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts argue that Mayfield could bounce back against the Dolphins, citing his earlier season performance where he ranked as QB4 in the first half of the season. However, the consensus remains that his recent form does not support a start in Week 17.
What's Next
As the fantasy playoffs conclude, managers must stay updated on player performances and injuries, particularly with key players like Lamar Jackson and Jordan Love listed as doubtful or out. The final week of the regular season will be pivotal for many fantasy championships, making strategic lineup decisions essential for success.
In summary, for Week 17, the recommended starts are Brock Purdy and Omarion Hampton, while Baker Mayfield and Breece Hall should be benched based on their recent performances and matchups.
