RADIO
The Pittsburgh Steelers are a team dealing with a banged-up wide receiver corps, and fantasy managers are left wondering if anyone on this roster can step up.
With George Pickens potentially sidelined again due to a hamstring injury, Mike Williams, Calvin Austin III, and Van Jefferson could all see more opportunities in Week 15. However, a tough matchup and inconsistent roles make trusting them difficult.
As the fantasy playoffs heat up, let us evaluate whether these Steelers wideouts can help your team or if they should remain on the bench.
Should I Start Mike Williams for Fantasy Football?
Mike Williams brought in three passes on four targets for 36 yards in the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 14 victory over the Cleveland Browns. Despite limited volume from quarterback Russell Wilson, who threw only 26 times, the 30-year-old finished second on the team in targets. While his involvement is notable, it does not translate into a reliable fantasy option heading into Week 15.
I doubt I'll ever understand why Aaron Rodgers and Mike Tomlin were so reluctant to throw passes to Mike Williamspic.twitter.com/C07xX3GgBj
— Scott Spratt (@Scott_Spratt) December 8, 2024
The Steelers face the Philadelphia Eagles, who permit the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game to wide receivers and consistently shut down opposing passing games. Even if George Pickens is ruled out, Williams' production ceiling remains low. Managers should sit him this week and look for other options at wide receiver or flex.
Should I Start Calvin Austin III for Fantasy Football?
Calvin Austin III has flashed potential this season but struggled in Week 14, catching just one pass for four yards on four targets. Despite scoring touchdowns in two games prior, his production has been uneven and dependent on big plays.
Mike Williams back at practice after his rest day yesterday, but no George Pickens.
Here’s Russ to Calvin Austin III for your viewing pleasure. pic.twitter.com/WY4ksawcsh
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) December 12, 2024
This week's matchup against the Eagles does not favor Austin. Philadelphia's defense excels at limiting wide receiver production, and Austin's role in the offense does not provide a high floor. Fantasy managers should avoid starting him in Week 15, even in deeper leagues.
Should I Start Van Jefferson for Fantasy Football?
A touchdown in Week 14 might have put Van Jefferson on some fantasy radars, but a closer look reveals significant risks. That score came on his only target of the game, and his overall involvement in the offense has been minimal this season.
Russell Wilson with the CLUTCH connection to Van Jefferson 💪pic.twitter.com/vSsHF79CIT
— Steelers Nation (@SteelerNationCP) December 1, 2024
The Eagles defense ranks among the best in limiting wide receiver production, and Jefferson has shown little to suggest he can overcome such a challenging matchup. He is better left on the bench this week, as his limited role makes him far too risky for fantasy playoff lineups.
Popular Week 15 Searches - Start/Sit Comparisons
Below are some popular Week 15 searches and comparisons from our Who To Start tool for Mike Williams, Calvin Austin, Van Jefferson compared to others. You can also use the free Who Should I Start tool to run your own start/sit comparisons, up to four players at once:
Demario Douglas or Calvin Austin
Nick Chubb or Mike Williams
Tim Patrick or Mike Williams
Demario Douglas or Calvin Austiniii
Jakobi Meyers or Mike Williams
Jaylen Waddle or Mike Williams
Zach Ertz or Calvin Austin
Ameer Abdullah or Calvin Austin
Calvin Austiniii or Van Jefferson
Christian Watson or Mike Williams
Deebo Samuelsr or Calvin Austiniii
Devaughn Vele or Calvin Austiniii
Jalen Coker or Mike Williams
Jayden Reed or Calvin Austin
Jaylen Waddle or Calvin Austiniii
Jerry Jeudy or Calvin Austiniii
Michael Wilson or Calvin Austiniii
Mike Williams or Calvin Austiniii
Nick Westbrookikhine or Calvin Austiniii
Parker Washington or Calvin Austiniii
Ray Davis or Calvin Austiniii
Ricky Pearsall or Calvin Austin
Ricky Pearsall or Calvin Austiniii
Tim Patrick or Calvin Austin
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