IDP Start/Sit Week 16
This is our final battle between us and the championship. If we made it this far then there is no room for error. Our hard work all season is what got us here and we cannot give up now. This week consistency matters for our IDP, as the lack of consistency is not worth the risk. We are so close to having a spot in the finale for our fantasy leagues. Let’s make sure every start and every sit count!
*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
Edge Rusher – Indianapolis Colts – DeForest Buckner (vs TEN) – START
Buckner enters Week 15 riding a three-game sack streak and totaling five sacks over his last seven games. Buckner has been a dominant force on the Colts’ defensive line, showcasing his rare combination of size, power, and athleticism. His ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt both the passing and running game has been pivotal for the Colts’ defense. This week, Buckner faces the Tennessee Titans, a divisional opponent with offensive line issues and a lack of consistency in their pass protection. These struggles play right into Buckner’s hands, making him an ideal candidate to extend his sack streak and rack up fantasy points.
The Titans’ decision to start Mason Rudolph at quarterback this week further elevates Buckner’s potential. With Rudolph taking over again for the Titans’ offense, the rhythm and timing of their passing game could suffer, creating more opportunities for Buckner to get into the backfield. Additionally, Tennessee’s offensive line has allowed 46 sacks this season, ranking among the league’s worst in protecting the quarterback. Buckner’s versatility and relentless motor will be critical in exploiting these weaknesses, especially in situations where Rudolph may hold onto the ball too long. With Buckner in peak form and facing an advantageous matchup, IDP managers should confidently lock him into their starting lineups.
Defensive Line – Jacksonville Jaguars – Josh Hines-Allen (@ LV) – START
Hines-Allen is a strong start in IDP leagues this week, thanks to an enticing matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders have struggled with consistency at quarterback, which has translated into frequent breakdowns in pass protection. Their offensive line has allowed 47 sacks this season, making them one of the more vulnerable units in the league. Allen, an explosive edge rusher has the ability to break into the backfield on any given snap. His ability to pressure the quarterback, coupled with his skill in setting the edge against the run, makes him a prime candidate for a productive outing.
Although Allen’s two-game sack streak ended last week, he remains a consistent force on the Jaguars’ defensive front. With seven sacks on the season, he is on the cusp of reaching eight, which would mark the third-most productive year of his career in terms of sacks. Given the favorable matchup and Allen’s ability to dominate against shaky offensive lines, this is an excellent opportunity for him to get back in the sack column and deliver a standout performance.
Linebacker – Cincinnati Bengals – Akeem Davis-Gaither (vs CLE) – START
Davis-Gaither is an excellent start this week in IDP leagues due to his recent surge in production and a favorable matchup. Since the Bengals’ Week 12 bye, Davis-Gaither has been on fire, averaging an impressive 11 tackles per game over the past three weeks, including two double-digit tackle performances. His ability to diagnose plays and make quick stops has made him a reliable presence for the Bengals’ defense. This week, he faces a team transitioning to a new starting quarterback, which often results in a more run-heavy approach as they try to ease the quarterback into the offense. Such a scenario plays directly into Davis-Gaither’s strengths, as he thrives on stopping the run and accumulating tackles.
The combination of Davis-Gaither’s recent form and the expected game script makes him a prime candidate for another big performance. His high tackle floor is strengthened by his ability for being in the right place at the right time, ensuring he capitalizes on every opportunity to rack up stats. Additionally, the Bengals’ defensive scheme allows Davis-Gaither to stay on the field for most downs, further increasing his chances to make plays. With the opposing team likely leaning heavily on the ground game, this matchup sets up perfectly for another double-digit tackle outing.
Linebacker – Arizona Cardinals – Kyzir White (@ CAR) – START
White is a fantastic start this week in IDP leagues, thanks to an ideal matchup against a team that relies heavily on the run game and frequently targets the middle of the field in the passing attack. White’s ability to sniff out runs and drop into coverage makes him a versatile weapon for the Cardinals’ defense. Over the past four weeks, White has been on a tear, consistently producing double-digit fantasy scores, including back-to-back double-digit tackle performances. His high motor and ability for being around the ball ensure he has plenty of opportunities to pile up tackles, making him a reliable IDP option.
This week’s matchup provides an excellent chance for White to extend his streak of strong performances. Opponents who lean on the run game often translate to increased tackle opportunities for linebackers, and White is well-positioned to take advantage. Additionally, his ability to defend the short and intermediate passing game ensures he will be active in all phases of the defense. With his recent hot streak and favorable game script, White is a near-lock for another double-digit tackle outing.
Defensive Back – Chicago Bears – Kevin Byard (vs DET) – START
Byard is a solid start this week in IDP formats, thanks to a favorable matchup against divisional rival Detroit. With Detroit potentially leaning more on the passing game after losing one of their featured running backs, Byard could capitalize on increased opportunities in coverage. A reliable producer since Week 8, Byard has not scored less than 10 fantasy points in any game during that span, showcasing his consistency. His instincts and ability to read the quarterback make him a threat to disrupt passing plays, whether by racking up tackles on receivers or creating turnovers. Against a Lions team that could be forced to air it out, Byard should have plenty of chances to make an impact.
Byard’s recent form further strengthens his appeal as a start this week. He has been a consistent playmaker. Detroit’s offense, while explosive, has shown vulnerabilities when relying too heavily on the pass, which plays into Byard’s strengths. With his knack for being around the ball and his ability to post solid tackle numbers, he is a safe bet for another double-digit scoring week.
Additional Players to consider starting:
Tennessee Titans – DL – Harold Landry
Buffalo Bills – DL – Greg Rousseau
Washington Commanders – LB – Bobby Wagner
Pittsburgh Steelers – LB – Patrick Queen
Los Angeles Rams – DB – Quentin Lake
SIT
Defensive Line – Los Angeles Rams – Kobie Turner (@ NYJ) – SIT
Turner should be on your bench this week in IDP leagues despite his impressive two-sack performance in his last outing. While Turner showcased his pass-rushing ability in that game, it is important to consider the matchup against the New York Jets, who are coming off a game where they allowed only one sack on Aaron Rodgers. The Jets’ offensive line has been improving in pass protection, and their quick passing game further minimizes sack opportunities for opposing defenders. Additionally, Turner’s production has been inconsistent; before his breakout game, his last sack came back in Week 10 during a home matchup. This lack of consistency raises concerns about his reliability in this week’s game.
The Jets’ offensive game plan is likely to focus on neutralizing the Rams’ pass rush, which could limit Turner’s ability to make an impact. Without the opportunity for sacks, Turner’s fantasy output could regress significantly, especially if he does not compensate with high tackle numbers. While his recent performance may tempt managers to start him, the matchup suggests this could be a letdown week for the young defensive lineman. Turner’s potential is undeniable, but his inconsistency and the Jets’ solid protection make him a risky play.
Edge Rusher – Chicago Bears – Montez Sweat (vs DET) – SIT
Sweat might be better off on your bench in IDP leagues this week due to a tough matchup against the Detroit Lions. Over the past three weeks, the Lions’ offensive line has been one of the best in the league, allowing only five sacks during that span. They have prioritized protecting Jared Goff, giving him ample time to operate in the pocket and limiting opportunities for opposing pass rushers. Meanwhile, Sweat has struggled to make a significant impact recently, failing to record a sack in his last three games. This combination of a strong Lions offensive line and Sweat’s recent dip in production makes it unlikely he will get back into the sack column this week.
Sweat’s value as an IDP player relies heavily on his ability to generate pressure and secure sacks, but this week’s matchup does not set up well for him to succeed. The Lions’ offense is built around a quick passing game and a balanced attack that minimizes risk, further reducing Sweat’s chances to make a big play. While he has the talent to bounce back in the future, this week’s circumstances suggest he will struggle to produce at a high level. For fantasy managers looking for consistent points, Sweat’s recent slump and the unfavorable matchup make him a risky option.
Linebacker – Jacksonville Jaguars – Devin Lloyd (@ LV) – SIT
Lloyd might be better left on the bench in IDP leagues this week due to his inconsistent production in recent games. When fellow linebacker Foyesade Oluokun missed time earlier this season, Lloyd had a golden opportunity to step up as the team’s dominant defensive presence. However, he failed to fully capitalize, delivering underwhelming performances that highlighted his inability to shoulder the defensive load on his own. Over his past four games, Lloyd has only managed to score double-digit fantasy points once, raising concerns about his reliability. While he remains a talented linebacker with playmaking potential, his recent struggles suggest he is not the most trustworthy option for fantasy managers in critical matchups.
Lloyd’s inconsistency makes him a risky start, especially when there are more dependable IDP options available. His lack of big plays and limited tackle numbers in recent weeks point to a player who isn’t maximizing his opportunities on the field. The Jaguars’ defensive scheme spreads responsibilities across multiple players, which might further limit Lloyd’s upside. While his athleticism and skill set give him long-term potential, his current form leaves plenty of reason for doubt.
Linebacker – Seattle Seahawks – Tyrice Knight (vs MIN) – SIT
Knight might be better suited for the bench in IDP leagues this week due to his recent inconsistency in tackle production. While Knight has shown the ability to post double-digit fantasy performances, two of his last three games were exactly 10 points, which is decent but not outstanding for an IDP linebacker. In those two weeks, he recorded fewer than seven tackles, which is concerning for a player whose value largely depends on consistent tackle numbers. With many IDP options available this week, managers may want to prioritize linebackers who provide a higher floor and more reliable tackling output.
Although Knight’s scoring potential is solid, his recent performances suggest he is not delivering the consistency that IDP managers need during playoff matchups. The Seahawks’ defensive scheme distributes tackle opportunities across multiple players, which could limit Knight’s production further. Additionally, against opponents that might avoid running into the strength of Seattle’s defense, his chances to rack up stats could be even slimmer. For fantasy managers looking for a linebacker who can consistently deliver tackles and exceed the 10-point threshold, it might be wise to bench Knight this week in favor of more reliable options.
Defensive Back – Seattle Seahawks – Devon Witherspoon (vs MIN) – SIT
Witherspoon has been an exciting IDP asset this season, but he might be better left on your bench during the fantasy playoffs. While Witherspoon has showcased his playmaking ability and potential for explosive performances, his recent inconsistency raises concerns. Over the past three weeks, he has posted two games with under 10 fantasy points, which is a risky floor during critical playoff matchups. In fantasy playoffs, managers need players with dependable production, and Witherspoon’s recent streak makes him a gamble in high-stakes situations.
The variability in Witherspoon’s performance stems from his role in the Seahawks’ defense and the unpredictability of big plays such as sacks or interceptions. While he has the talent to deliver splash plays, his tackling numbers and overall production have not been as consistent as other defensive backs. There are safer options with more reliable tackle floors and steady scoring outputs. While Witherspoon remains a high-upside player, his recent inconsistency makes him a risky start this week.
Additional Players to Consider Sitting:
Philadelphia Eagles – DL – Josh Sweat
Kansas City Chiefs – DL – Chris Jones
Los Angeles Rams – LB – Omar Speights
Detroit Lions – LB – Jack Campbell
Baltimore Ravens – DB – Kyle Hamilton
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. GOOD LUCK this week! We hope you get in the playoffs!
For a more detailed start/sit list, make sure you check out our Weekly IDP Rankings.