This article will focus on the best value play at each position using NFL DraftKings’ pricing for the Sunday 1 PM (ET) slate. We will provide one cheap option at every position based on matchups and game theory from top to bottom. Now that we’ve done the housekeeping, let’s get into Week 18.
Quarterback: Nick Mullens, Minnesota Vikings ($5,100)
Mullens is averaging more than 22 fantasy points per game in his two starts this season for the Vikings. In Week 16, he threw for over 400 yards and two TDs against the Lions. If Mullens can eliminate the turnovers, he could have a big game. Vegas has this game with the fourth-highest projection on the slate, so you can stack Mullens with Justin Jefferson and/or K.J. Osborn.
Running Back: Chuba Hubbard, Carolina Panthers ($5,500)
Hubbard is averaging more than 15 fantasy points per game over the last six games. In Week 13, he had 104 rushing yards and two TDs against the Buccaneers. Hopefully, he can have a repeat performance at home against them this week to finish out the season.
Wide Receiver: Darius Slayton, New York Giants ($4,000)
Slayton is averaging 17 fantasy points per game over the last three games, as he has clearly found a connection with Tyrod Taylor. In Week 18, he had three receptions for 90 receiving yards and a TD on the road against the Eagles, including a 69-yard TD from Taylor. I think Slayton will have another big play this week, taking advantage of a very beatable Eagles secondary.
Tight End: Tucker Kraft, Green Bay Packers ($3,700)
Kraft is averaging more than 11 fantasy points per game over the last four games and he has a good matchup this week against the Bears, who are the 27th-ranked defense against the TE position. With the Packers needing to win to make the playoffs, he should come up big.
Defense: Los Angeles Chargers’ DEF ($2,800)
Patrick Mahomes has already been ruled out, and many of the rest of the Chiefs’ starters are unlikely to play a significant role in this game. With that in mind, the Chargers should control this game at home.