The Minnesota Vikings shocked everyone last week with a dominant showing against the Bengals. Carson Wentz, making his first meaningful start in three years, silenced doubters and reignited belief in his fantasy value. Now, he faces a Steelers defense that has struggled to contain passing attacks all season, surrendering big yardage and touchdowns through the air.
Carson Wentz increases Fantasy Value for Vikings Offense
Steelers’ Mike Tomlin on facing Vikings: ‘Grizzly veteran’ Carson Wentz ‘certainly has our attention’ – Kevin Patra via NFL.com.
On the flip side, Pittsburgh’s offense is still trying to find its rhythm under Aaron Rodgers. The running game has been inconsistent, and the tight ends haven’t provided much production. With both teams dealing with key injuries, this Thursday night clash has plenty of fantasy intrigue. Let’s break down who you can trust and who you should fade.
🔥 Starts
- Carson Wentz – QB, Vikings 🔥
Wentz’s comeback has been one of the biggest fantasy surprises this year. Last week, he threw for 287 yards and 2 TDs against Cincinnati while showing excellent command of the offense. The Steelers rank near the bottom in passing yards allowed per game, and with Jordan Addison back alongside Justin Jefferson, the weapons are there for another strong outing.
Projected Stats: 23/35, 295 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 15 rushing yards
- Jordan Mason – RB, Vikings 🔥
Mason has seized control of the Vikings’ backfield and looks the part of a bell cow. He gashed the Bengals for 116 yards and 2 scores last week on just 16 carries. Pittsburgh has already been gashed by Kenneth Walker and Breece Hall earlier this season, making Mason a must-start. His volume and red zone usage make him a high-upside RB2.
Projected Stats: 18 carries, 94 yards, 1 TD; 2 catches, 12 yards
- Justin Jefferson – WR, Vikings 🔥
Jefferson is always an automatic start, but it’s worth highlighting him this week given the matchup. The Steelers have allowed multiple WR1 performances already this year, and with Addison returning, defenses won’t be able to key in on Jefferson alone. Expect another monster outing.
Projected Stats: 8 catches, 108 yards, 1 TD
- Calvin Austin III – WR, Steelers 🔥
Austin has quietly emerged as a reliable weapon. He’s tied with DK Metcalf in targets per game and has scored in back-to-back weeks. With defenses focusing on George Pickens, Austin is seeing favorable matchups and has the speed to break open big plays. He’s a strong flex option in PPR and standard formats.
Projected Stats: 5 catches, 61 yards, 1 TD
He’s certainly proven himself – Arthur Smith on Calvin Austin lll via Steelers Depot.
❄️ Sits
- Aaron Rodgers – QB, Steelers ❄️
Rodgers has been underwhelming outside of one decent outing against Seattle. His 203-yard, 1 TD performance versus the Seahawks was hardly inspiring, and the Vikings’ pass rush has been disruptive. Without a consistent run game to lean on, Rodgers faces an uphill battle to deliver QB1 numbers. Look elsewhere if you have other options.
Projected Stats: 20/34, 214 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
- Jonnu Smith & Pat Freiermuth – TEs, Steelers ❄️
Neither tight end has found chemistry with Rodgers this season. Both have been limited to low target shares and minimal red zone work. Against a Vikings defense that has been surprisingly strong against tight ends, there’s no reason to force either into your lineup this week.
Projected Stats (each): 2 catches, 20–25 yards, 0 TD
🌙 Sleeper
- T.J. Hockenson – TE, Vikings 🌙
Hockenson showed signs of life last week and could be in line for a bigger role with defenses stretched thin covering Jefferson, Addison, and Nailor. Hunter Henry had success against this Steelers unit earlier this year, and Wentz has historically leaned on his tight ends. Hockenson has sneaky TE1 upside this week and could be a difference-maker in deeper leagues.
Projected Stats: 4 catches, 47 yards, 1 TD
Wrap Up
This game sets up as another statement opportunity for the Vikings, especially with Wentz looking rejuvenated and Mason pounding the rock. Justin Jefferson is locked in for another WR1 performance, and even Hockenson could thrive as a sleeper option.
The Steelers, meanwhile, remain inconsistent. Rodgers is a risky play, and the tight ends aren’t worth rostering, but Calvin Austin III and Jaylen Warren provide safe, productive options.
Fantasy managers should lean heavily on Minnesota’s offensive stars in this matchup. If you’re looking for steady points, Wentz, Mason, and Jefferson are your guys, while Hockenson could be the sneaky play that tilts a matchup in your favor.
