The Pittsburgh Steelers come into this AFC North clash looking confident and composed, led by rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who impressed in his first career start last week. This matchup marks his first true divisional test, and it’s coming against a tough Cleveland defense that has struggled to find consistency on offense.
The Browns, meanwhile, are searching for rhythm and identity. Injuries and inconsistent quarterback play have slowed them down, but playmakers like David Njoku and rookie back Quinshon Judkins offer real fantasy upside. Expect a gritty, low-scoring divisional battle filled with big hits and some sneaky fantasy production for savvy managers.
⚙️ Start ‘Em (Steelers)
Aaron “Todgers” Rodgers – QB, Steelers
Rodgers has found his groove this season, racking up 8 touchdowns already. His chemistry with DK Metcalf is undeniable, and even though the Browns’ defense won’t make it easy, Rodgers’ experience should shine through. Expect another efficient, multi-score outing.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
DK Metcalf – WR, Steelers
After a slow start, Metcalf has been on a tear, dominating in contested catch situations and producing when it matters most. The Browns’ secondary is tough, but Metcalf’s size-speed combo keeps him matchup-proof. Pencil him in as a strong WR1 play.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Jaylen Warren Ready For Week 6 – Jared Small via draftsharks.com
Jaylen Warren – RB, Steelers
Back from injury, Warren is set to reclaim his role as the Steelers’ lead back. He’s been efficient all season when healthy and should handle the bulk of the work in both the run and passing game.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥
🟤 Start ‘Em (Browns)
Quinshon Judkins – RB, Browns
The rookie back continues to impress week after week and looks like the most complete runner in his draft class. Expect a heavy workload here as the Browns try to control the tempo and protect their young quarterback. RB2 with upside.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Jerry Jeudy – WR, Browns
Let’s be honest, Jeudy is currently Cleveland’s only reliable downfield option. While the offense remains inconsistent, Jeudy’s route running and target share keep him fantasy relevant, especially in PPR formats.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥
💪 David Njoku – TE, Browns
Njoku is becoming the heartbeat of this offense. He saw 9 targets last week, converting them into 67 yards and a touchdown. For a rookie QB, an athletic tight end like Njoku is a dream. Fire him up as a top-8 TE play this week.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
🚫 Sit ‘Em
Kenneth Gainwell – RB, Steelers
With Jaylen Warren healthy again, Gainwell slides back into a secondary role. His volume will be too limited to trust in most formats.
Sit Meter: 💀💀💀💀
🌙 Sleeper of the Week:
Harold Fannin Jr. – TE, Browns
Fannin quietly scored last week and caught all four of his targets. With the Browns struggling to find consistent options on the perimeter, he could emerge as a sneaky secondary weapon in the red zone. Deep-league TE stash or DFS dart throw with upside.
Sleeper Meter: 🌙🌙🌙
⚡ Quick Start Table
| Player | Team | Status | Confidence Meter |
| Aaron Rodgers | PIT | ✅ Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| DK Metcalf | PIT | ✅ Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Jaylen Warren | PIT | ✅ Start | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Quinshon Judkins | CLE | ✅ Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Jerry Jeudy | CLE | ✅ Start | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| David Njoku | CLE | ✅ Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Kenneth Gainwell | PIT | 🚫 Sit | 💀💀💀💀 |
| Harold Fannin Jr. | CLE | 🌙 Sleeper |
🏁 Wrap-Up
This divisional showdown should be physical, defensive, and full of emotion: exactly what you’d expect from a Browns-Steelers clash. Rodgers and Metcalf will test Cleveland’s secondary, while Njoku and Judkins provide the Browns’ best offensive spark.
Start the playmakers you trust, bench the inconsistent depth options, and don’t be surprised if David Njoku ends up being the fantasy MVP of this AFC North slugfest.
