Minnesota gets J.J. McCarthy back under center, hoping to stabilize the Vikings’ passing game that’s been inconsistent at best against the Commanders. Washington counters with Jayden Daniels returning healthy and stepping into a soft matchup against a Vikings defense worn down by offensive turnovers. With both teams searching for momentum, fantasy managers must tread carefully, but there is value to be found.
Start ’Em
Jayden Daniels — QB, Commanders
If Marcus Mariota can put up two scores against Denver, Daniels can absolutely thrive against a reeling Vikings defense. With a full complement of weapons and rushing upside, he’s a strong QB1 play this week.
Chris Rodriguez — RB, Commanders
Rodriguez has clearly separated himself as Washington’s lead back. He runs hard, gets the goal-line work, and is trending up. A touchdown is well within reach.
Terry McLaurin — WR, Commanders
With Washington likely controlling the pace, McLaurin and Daniels should see plenty of opportunities. Minnesota has struggled to contain WR1s when its offense cannot sustain drives.
Zach Ertz — TE, Commanders
Ertz might’ve stepped into a Time Machine, but the fantasy points are real. He’s been rejuvenated and heavily involved. Roll him out again with confidence.
Deebo Samuel — WR, Commanders (Flex)
Fifteen targets over the last two weeks is elite volume. Deebo’s a strong flex play with upside for more if he continues commanding looks across formations.
George Kittle said what the NFL is scared to admit about Deebo Samuel- Dean Jones vis Riggs o Rag
Flex Options
Jordan Addison — WR, Vikings
Teams are selling out to stop Jefferson, which has funneled targets Addison’s way. Until McCarthy settles, Addison remains the safer Vikings receiver to flex.
Justin Jefferson — WR, Vikings (Flex… with Caution)
Jefferson is normally untouchable, but the lack of chemistry with McCarthy has been alarming. If you have depth, consider benching him—but if you must start him, treat him like a volatile flex, not a WR1.
Aaron Jones — RB, Vikings
Cleared to play and positioned to be the lead back. His workload should be stable enough to warrant a flex, especially in PPR formats.
Jordan Mason — RB, Vikings (Deep-League Flex)
Even with Jones active, Mason still gets enough touches to offer desperation flex appeal in larger formats with multiple flex spots.
Sit ’Em
Anthony McFarland / Croskey-Merritt & Jeremy McNichols — RBs, Commanders
With Rodriguez firmly in control, neither back has produced enough to justify fantasy consideration.
T.J. Hockenson — TE, Vikings
Despite a solid game last week, he still hasn’t found the end zone. Until he does, he’s too risky to trust, especially with McCarthy’s inconsistency.
Vikings Defense
The defense itself is capable, but the offense’s turnover issues put them in bad field position far too often. This is not the matchup to gamble on.
Final Takeaway
Both teams enter this matchup trying to find their rhythm, but Washington’s returning starters and clearer offensive identity give them the fantasy edge. Daniels, McLaurin, Rodriguez, and Ertz are all trending in the right direction, while Minnesota’s starters are harder to trust outside of flex roles. If you need safe floors, lean Commanders; if you’re swinging for upside, Addison and Jefferson offer volatility but also hope.
This one may be unpredictable on the field, but your fantasy lineup doesn’t have to be.
