IDP Start/Sit Week 13
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! We hope everybody enjoys a nice day of family, food, and football! However, even though this is a time to give thanks there is still games to be won before we reach the fantasy football playoffs. That starts today as we enter week 13 of the fantasy football season. Luckily, we only have one player we believe is a must start on Thanksgiving. Regardless, this week and next every decision matters to either get us into the playoffs or help us move up the ranks to secure that bye week. Let’s give thanks for the opportunities, but let’s not stop our pursuit to fantasy gold!
*SIDE NOTE*—We consider a start as a player who will earn 10 or more points for you, while a sit scores less than 10 points.
**Injuries happen when we least expect it! In case of an all-of-sudden injury or reason a player cannot play, be sure to check out our pivot options too!**
STARTS
Defensive Line – Indianapolis Colts – DeForest Buckner (@ NE) – START
The Patriots are currently thin at wide receiver, which could force them to rely more heavily on their run game. This plays directly into Buckner’s strengths as a disruptive force on the defensive line. His ability to shed blocks and clog rushing lanes makes him a prime candidate to rack up tackles. Since returning from injury, Buckner has been highly consistent, averaging six tackles per game and demonstrating his versatility as both a run-stopper and pass rusher. His steady floor in tackles alone makes him a reliable IDP option, with upside for even more production in this matchup.
Additionally, Buckner has recorded three sacks in his last five games, showcasing his ability to get after the quarterback. Against a rookie quarterback like Drake Maye, who may hold the ball a bit longer under pressure, Buckner has a solid chance to add to his sack total this week. Even if the sack opportunities do not materialize, the Patriots’ run-heavy approach should provide Buckner plenty of chances to pad his stats with tackles. His combination of recent form, favorable matchup, and potential for big plays makes him a smart addition to your lineup.
Edge Rusher – Dallas Cowboys – Micah Parsons (vs NYG) – START (THANKSGIVING)
In his last two NFC East games, Parsons recorded two sacks in each contest, showcasing his ability to elevate his play against familiar opponents. The Giants present an especially enticing opportunity, as they arguably have the worst offensive line in the division. They have struggled to protect their quarterback all season. This vulnerability could allow Parsons to exceed his typical production and potentially rack up more than two sacks in this game. With his elite pass-rushing skills and a favorable matchup, Parsons is positioned to deliver a standout performance.
Parsons’ recent form since returning from injury further solidifies his status as a must-start. Over the past three weeks, he has generated 15 of his 36 total pressures on the season, proving that he is fully recovered and back to being a disruptive force. This surge in productivity highlights his ability to get after the quarterback and consistently disrupt opposing offenses. Against a Giants team that has struggled with pass protection and turnovers, Parsons’ explosive athleticism and relentless motor make him a game changing IDP asset. Whether through sacks, tackles for loss, or quarterback hits, Parsons is likely to deliver significant fantasy points in this Thanksgiving showdown.
Linebacker – Los Angeles Chargers – Daiyan Henley (@ ATL) – START
Since Week 8, Henley has been on a tear, averaging an impressive 11 tackles per game. His ability to quickly diagnose plays and close in on ball carriers has made him a key piece of the Chargers’ defense. His tackle numbers reflect his growing role. This week’s matchup against the Falcons is particularly favorable, as Atlanta’s offense utilizes their running game up the middle, creating the perfect opportunity for Henley to shine. His recent consistency eliminates any reason for doubt, making him a high-floor, high-ceiling play for fantasy managers.
The Falcons’ run-heavy approach, spearheaded by their superstar running back and power run schemes, plays directly into Henley’s strengths as a run-stopper. He thrives in matchups where he can patrol the middle of the field and make plays in the box, which aligns perfectly with the Falcons’ offensive tendencies. Additionally, with the Chargers needing to tighten their defensive front to stay competitive, Henley is set to see plenty of action and should have no trouble putting up another double-digit tackle performance. His current form, combined with an ideal matchup, makes Henley a reliable and high-upside starter this week.
Linebacker – Philadelphia Eagles – Zack Baun (@ BAL) – START
Baun is a fantastic IDP start this week against the Baltimore Ravens, despite his underwhelming three-tackle performance last week. The Ravens are one of the most run-heavy teams in the league, a game plan that consistently creates tackle opportunities for opposing linebackers. Baun has shown the ability to thrive in such scenarios, as evidenced by his impressive four-game stretch before last week, where he averaged 11 tackles per game. This ability to efficiently track the ball and bring down runners makes him an ideal option against a Ravens team that will lean heavily on their ground game featuring Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry.
Baun’s poor outing last week appears to be an outlier rather than a trend, especially considering his prior consistency. The matchup against Baltimore sets up perfectly for a bounce-back performance, as their rushing attack will funnel opportunities directly to Baun. Additionally, the Eagles’ defense has relied on Baun to step up in key situations. This game should provide plenty of chances for him to rack up tackles.
Defensive Back – Atlanta Falcons – Jessie Bates (vs LAC) – START
Bates is a strong start this week against the Los Angeles Chargers, especially with the Chargers likely missing running back J.K. Dobbins. Without a strong rushing attack, the Chargers may lean more heavily on their passing game. This could create additional opportunities for Bates to make plays in the secondary. Bates has proven himself as a dynamic player capable of both racking up tackles and disrupting passing lanes. While Week 11 marked his first double-digit tackling performance since Week 2, his ability to step up in high-volume situations makes him a valuable IDP asset. This increased reliance on the passing game should give Bates plenty of chances to accumulate stats.
The Falcons are also coming off a bye week, meaning Bates should be fully rested and ready to deliver a strong performance. A well-rested defense often performs more cohesively, and Bates will be a key piece in slowing down a Chargers offense. His range and playmaking ability put him in prime position to capitalize on any mistakes from the opposing quarterback. In a critical stretch for fantasy managers, Bates’ potential for high tackle numbers combined with his ability for game-changing plays makes him a reliable and high-upside start.
Additional Players to consider starting:
New York Jets – DL – Quinnen Williams
Houston Texans – DL – Danielle Hunter
Seattle Seahawks – LB – Ernest Jones
Pittsburgh Steelers – LB – Patrick Queen
Carolina Panthers – DB – Xavier Woods
SIT
Edge Rusher – Jacksonville Jaguars – Josh Hines-Allen (vs HOU) – SIT
Allen is a tempting IDP option this week due to a favorable matchup against a struggling offensive line. However, he is better left on your bench. While the opposing line has shown vulnerability, the Jaguars’ season is essentially over, and their defensive unit has been lackluster. Their defense has averaged just one sack per game over the past four weeks. Allen’s performance has mirrored this trend; although he posted two sacks three weeks ago, he has since cooled off, averaging only two tackles per game. This inconsistency makes him a risky play during the crucial playoff push in fantasy leagues, where reliability is key.
The matchup may look enticing on paper, but Allen’s recent production suggests he is more of a hopeful start than a sure thing. With Jacksonville out of playoff contention, the team might prioritize evaluating younger players or rotating snaps, potentially capping Allen’s opportunities. Additionally, with only sporadic success in recent weeks, he is not providing the steady production managers need in these must-win scenarios. While Allen remains a talented pass rusher, it is wise to prioritize players with proven consistency over the past few games rather than banking on his upside. Save him for a future matchup where the Jaguars’ defense shows signs of life or in less critical fantasy situations.
Edge Rusher – Los Angeles Chargers – Khalil Mack (@ ATL) – SIT
While the Falcons have allowed six sacks over their past two games, Mack’s recent performance raises concerns about his ability to capitalize. Since suffering a groin injury in Week 10, Mack has struggled to generate consistent pressure, logging only four total pressures over his last two full games played. This drop in production suggests that he may not yet be fully recovered. His effectiveness could be limited when on the field. For fantasy managers, the uncertainty surrounding his health and form makes him a less reliable option this week.
Additionally, the Falcons’ offensive approach may further limit Mack’s impact. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has been utilizing quicker passing plays, which reduce the amount of time edge rushers have to generate pressure. Coupled with Mack’s recent struggles and potential snap count limitations as he works his way back from injury, it is difficult to trust him to deliver a high-impact performance. While the matchup on paper appears favorable, Mack’s recent form and health concerns leave plenty of reason for doubt.
Linebacker – New York Jets – C.J. Mosley (vs SEA) – SIT
Mosley is coming off a neck injury, and while he is expected to play against the Seattle Seahawks, the Jets will likely limit his snaps to ensure he does not aggravate the injury. This reduced playing time could significantly impact his fantasy production, especially for managers relying on his usual high tackle volume. Additionally, neck injuries are tricky, and there is always a risk that Mosley might exit the game early if he experiences any discomfort. For fantasy managers, this combination of limited snaps and injury concerns makes him a less-than-ideal starting option this week.
The matchup against Seattle also poses challenges for Mosley’s fantasy value. The Seahawks’ offense often spreads the ball around, mixing in quick passes and a strong run game that could steer tackle opportunities away from Mosley’s position. With the Jets likely easing him back into action and other defenders stepping up, Mosley might not see his usual role as a defensive centerpiece. While Mosley is an elite linebacker when healthy, it’s wise to keep him on the bench this week.
Linebacker – Arizona Cardinals – Mack Wilson (@ MIN) – SIT
Wilson started the season strong, averaging just under seven tackles per game through the first six weeks. However, his production has dropped sharply since then, with an average of only three tackles per game in the last several weeks. This decline coincides with Kyzir White taking over as the primary playmaker at linebacker for the Cardinals, limiting Wilson’s opportunities. White’s consistent performance has solidified his role as the team’s top linebacker, pushing Wilson into more of a secondary role on the defense. For fantasy managers, this shift has made Wilson a risky and unreliable option in IDP formats, especially for those relying on steady tackle production. Until Wilson can demonstrate a return to form, he is better suited for the bench.
This week’s matchup against the Minnesota Vikings does not help Wilson’s case either. The Vikings’ offense, led by quarterback Sam Darnold, has emphasized short passes and designed runs that often funnel tackles to defensive backs or edge players rather than interior linebackers like Wilson. With Kyzir White likely to soak up most of the tackle opportunities in this game, Wilson’s chances to rack up meaningful fantasy points appear slim. Unless he sees a noticeable uptick in playing time or production, Wilson remains a bench stash in most IDP leagues. Fantasy managers should consider more consistent options at linebacker and only revisit Wilson if his role within the Cardinals’ defense expands in the coming weeks.
Defensive Back – Indianapolis Colts – Julian Blackmon (@ NE) – SIT
Blackmon’s recent production in IDP fantasy football has dipped significantly. Over the past three weeks, he has averaged only three tackles per game, a sharp decline from the eight tackles per game he averaged in the three games prior. This regression could be attributed to a shift in the Colts’ defensive scheme or simply game flow favoring other members of the secondary. While the Colts’ secondary remains a solid fantasy asset overall, Blackmon seems to be the odd man out lately. His decreased tackle volume has made him a less reliable option. For fantasy managers, his recent performance raises concerns about his role and reliability moving forward.
This week’s matchup against the New England Patriots further dampens Blackmon’s fantasy outlook. The Patriots’ offense is not known for high-octane passing attacks that often lead to tackle opportunities for defensive backs. Instead, they rely on a conservative, run-heavy approach, which could limit Blackmon’s chances to make impactful plays. Additionally, with other Colts defenders stepping up, Blackmon may not see enough high-leverage opportunities to justify starting him in IDP leagues. While he remains a talented player, his recent decline in production and an unfavorable matchup makes him a better option on your bench this week.
Additional Players to Consider Sitting:
New York Jets – DL – Haason Reddick
Buffalo Bills – DL – Greg Rousseau
Kansas City Chiefs – LB – Drue Tranquill
Baltimore Ravens – LB – Trenton Simpson
Miami Dolphins – DB – Jevon Holland
Be sure to follow us along all season long for weekly tips on who start and who to sit on the defensive side of the ball. Follow me on X @ThePPRShow for more fantasy football content and for offensive starts and sits be sure to check out @TFFGRobbie article too. Thank you for reading.
For a more detailed start/sit list, make sure you check out our Weekly IDP Rankings.