As we enter Week 11 of the fantasy football season, every decision you make could be the difference between a playoff push or watching the postseason from the sidelines. With only a few games left until most fantasy playoffs begin, the value of trades, waiver pickups, and lineup tweaks intensifies. Whether you’re looking to offload underperformers or bring in high-upside stars, a strategic understanding of trade values and rest-of-season rankings is essential to staying competitive.
In this article, we’ll explore:
• The top trade candidates at each position.
• How to evaluate trade values.
• Position-by-position rest-of-season rankings to help guide your trades.
Understanding the Trade Value Chart
The trade value chart assigns a numerical value to players based on their expected performance for the rest of the season. These values are not set in stone—they fluctuate based on factors like matchups, injuries, and recent performances. The purpose of the trade value chart is to help you gauge fair value in trades and understand who could provide more value down the line.
How to Use the Trade Value Chart
1. Identify Your Needs: Before making any trade, look at your roster’s strengths and weaknesses. Are you deep at running back but thin at receiver? Do you need a quarterback upgrade or a reliable tight end?
2. Compare Player Values: Use the trade value chart to compare players. For example, if a player has a trade value of 20, look for an equivalent value in the chart for other positions to ensure a fair trade.
3. Factor in Team Context: Don’t just look at raw points or projections; think about the player’s role, team dynamics, and upcoming matchups.
Top Players to Target (and Trade Away) in Week 11
Players to Target
1. Wide Receiver: Amon-Ra St. Brown (DET)
With Detroit surging, St. Brown’s role in the offense has been consistent, and he’s established a rapport with quarterback Jared Goff. He’s got favorable matchups down the stretch, making him an ideal target for teams looking to boost their WR1 slot.
2. Running Back: Jonathan Taylor (IND)
After a slow start and a recovery from injury, Taylor is hitting his stride. His value will only increase as the season progresses, making him a strong asset for teams looking to solidify their RB depth.
3. Quarterback: Josh Allen (BUF)
Allen has been up and down, but his upside remains massive. Buffalo has a favorable schedule, and if you can acquire him for a reasonable trade price, he could be a difference-maker in the fantasy playoffs.
Players to Trade Away
1. Wide Receiver: Adam Thielen (CAR)
Thielen’s early-season numbers have been stellar, but he’s a prime sell-high candidate. With a rookie QB in Bryce Young, the Panthers’ offense has been inconsistent, and Thielen could face regression as defenses focus more on him.
2. Running Back: D’Andre Swift (PHI)
Swift’s value is high, thanks to some big games, but the Eagles have a crowded backfield, and his usage isn’t guaranteed week-to-week. Now may be the time to maximize his trade value.
3. Quarterback: Geno Smith (SEA)
Smith has had a rollercoaster of a season, and his upcoming schedule doesn’t look favorable. He’s a solid mid-range QB, but you could find more consistent options for a playoff push.
Rest of Season Rankings by Position
Quarterbacks
1. Patrick Mahomes (KC): Always an elite QB1 option, Mahomes remains a weekly must-start with tremendous upside.
2. Jalen Hurts (PHI): With a rushing floor and a high-octane offense, Hurts is a top fantasy QB heading into the playoffs.
3. Josh Allen (BUF): A dual-threat talent, Allen’s rushing ability gives him the edge for high ceiling games.
Sleeper QBs to Consider:
• C.J. Stroud (HOU): The rookie QB has had a breakout season and faces some favorable matchups in Weeks 13-17.
• Sam Howell (WAS): Howell has shown flashes and could provide a high floor as a QB2.
Running Backs
1. Christian McCaffrey (SF): McCaffrey’s consistency makes him one of the most valuable fantasy assets in any format.
2. Austin Ekeler (LAC): After battling injuries, Ekeler is back, and he’s essential for both rushing and passing downs in LA’s offense.
3. Alvin Kamara (NO): Kamara’s dual-threat usage makes him highly valuable, especially in PPR leagues.
Sleeper RBs to Consider:
• Rachaad White (TB): With his receiving upside and Tampa Bay’s reliance on him, White has emerged as a viable RB2 option.
• Kareem Hunt (CLE): With injuries in Cleveland’s backfield, Hunt could continue to see increased volume.
Wide Receivers
1. Tyreek Hill (MIA): Hill’s explosive plays make him a weekly game-changer, and he’s crucial for fantasy teams looking to secure big points.
2. Stefon Diggs (BUF): Diggs’ rapport with Josh Allen and his consistent usage keep him firmly in WR1 territory.
3. A.J. Brown (PHI): A.J. Brown has been a force, with elite target share and big play potential every game.
Sleeper WRs to Consider:
• Tank Dell (HOU): Dell has shown upside in Houston’s offense and could be a sneaky WR2 in the playoffs.
• Rashid Shaheed (NO): Known for his big plays, Shaheed is boom-or-bust but offers significant upside in favorable matchups.
Tight Ends
1. Travis Kelce (KC): The gold standard at the position, Kelce’s chemistry with Mahomes makes him a top-tier TE1.
2. Mark Andrews (BAL): Andrews remains a key part of Baltimore’s offense and has a high floor every week.
3. T.J. Hockenson (MIN): Despite QB changes, Hockenson’s role in the Vikings’ offense keeps his value high.
Sleeper TEs to Consider:
• Dalton Kincaid (BUF): Kincaid is emerging as a valuable target in Buffalo’s offense, especially in PPR leagues.
• Trey McBride (ARI): McBride has seen an increase in targets recently and could be a low-risk, high-reward option.
Navigating Week 11 Trade Talks: Tips for Successful Trading
1. Offer Fair Value: It’s easy to want to “win” a trade, but fair value often yields the best results in the long run. Check the trade value chart to ensure both sides get a reasonable deal.
2. Target Struggling Teams: Look for teams with losing records or those facing injury issues. They may be more willing to trade top talent in exchange for depth players.
3. Focus on the Playoff Schedule: Certain players may have easier or more challenging matchups in Weeks 14-17. Pay attention to matchups that favor high-scoring games.
Example Trade Scenarios
Scenario 1: You’re thin at running back and need a strong RB1 option. Package a WR2 (like Mike Evans) and a QB2 (like Sam Howell) to target someone like Alvin Kamara or Austin Ekeler. These backs can provide crucial points during the fantasy playoffs.
Scenario 2: You’ve got Travis Kelce at tight end and want to add WR depth. Trade a player like Dalton Schultz or George Kittle to a TE-needy team for a WR2 or flex option such as Brandon Aiyuk or Garrett Wilson.
Final Thoughts: Stay Aggressive and Adaptable
Week 11 marks a turning point in the fantasy season. With limited time left before the playoffs, every trade and lineup decision counts. Use the trade value chart to identify high-value targets, and check the rest-of-season rankings to ensure you’re positioning yourself for a successful playoff run. And remember, it’s not just about winning a trade—it’s about setting your team up for consistent, high-scoring weeks in the matchups that matter most.
