Although it's tough to stomach another prime time game for the New York Jets, who were supposed to have Aaron Rodgers in these contests, they're back in the spotlight and will face a Joe Flacco-led Browns team to begin the Week 17 slate. The Jets and Browns have two of the best defenses in the NFL, which can make things tricky for fantasy football.
David Njoku has seen no shortage of targets since Flacco took over, Tyler Conklin has flashed at times this year, and Israel Abanikanda appears to be the new RB2 in New York. All three players have fantasy appeal this week.
Should you start Njoku, Conklin, or Abanikanda in Week 17 on Thursday Night Football? Let's dive in.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Should I Start David Njoku for Fantasy Football?
In Njoku's last three games, he's hauled in 22 of his 31 targets for 239 yards and four touchdowns. It's probably the best three-week stretch of his career, so he's become a hot name in fantasy football.
While the Jets have allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to wide receivers, they have allowed the 13th-most fantasy points per game to tight ends. Njoku has a chance to continue his high-end TE1 production in this spot. If Amari Cooper (heel) doesn't play, his ceiling could be even higher.
Ultimately, Njoku is a clear must-start.
Should I Start Tyler Conklin for Fantasy Football?
Conklin has seen at least six targets in four consecutive games, but by no surprise, he has not found the end zone this season as a part of the awful Jets' offense. Whether Tim Boyle, Zach Wilson, or Trevor Siemian has been under center this year, Garrett Wilson has been the only Jets' pass-catcher with consistent production and upside.
Since the Browns have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game to tight end this year, Conklin should be benched in all leagues.
Should I Start Israel Abanikanda for Fantasy Football?
Abanikanda (ankle) is questionable to play in Week 17, but even if he suits up, he shouldn't be trusted in most leagues. The rookie handled a career-high nine carries last week and posted 43 yards, but he did not draw a target. Meanwhile, Breece Hall was given 32 total touches.
Ultimately, this Jets' offense cannot be expected to have much success in this matchup, meaning there's a low chance two Jets' running backs will yield viable fantasy production.
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