Streamlining defenses has become a crucial tactic for fantasy football managers. Each week, savvy owners evaluate matchups and scour the waiver wire for the best options to bolster their starting defense. Here are some defenses worth considering for Week 7 that are mostly available for pickup.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers have had a challenging season so far, currently sitting 24th in fantasy defense with an average of 4.8 points per game. Their highlight was a double-digit scoring outing in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons, but they’ve struggled, registering two games with negative points against the Bears and Lions.
This week, the Panthers face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who might be without starting quarterback Baker Mayfield due to a dislocated thumb. Jalon Daniels had a decent start but faded during Week 6. If Mayfield is unable to play, the Panthers could capitalize on the Buccaneers’ offensive uncertainties. Currently, they are rostered in just 20.7% of ESPN leagues.
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns have been a solid choice for fantasy defenses this season, ranking 12th overall with an impressive average of 6.2 points per game. They’ve achieved two double-digit scores in recent weeks, against the Jets and Ravens, while their sole negative performance came in Week 1 against the Jaguars.
In Week 7, the Browns are set to meet the Tennessee Titans, who are struggling offensively, averaging a league-low of 14 points per game. Cleveland’s defense is primed to make a significant impact against a Titans offense that has shown vulnerability, allowing the Browns to create scoring opportunities. They’re currently rostered in 34.1% of ESPN leagues.
New York Jets
Ranking ninth in fantasy points at 6.7 per game, the New York Jets have shown they can perform well on defense this year. They’ve scored double digits in two games, against the Titans and Browns, and have avoided negative points, though they had scoreless outings against the Bears and Lions in Weeks 3 and 4, respectively.
This week, the Jets will go against the Miami Dolphins, who are also struggling offensively, averaging only 14 points per game. With star running back De’Von Achane sidelined for the season, the Dolphins’ consistency has faltered. The Jets have historically performed well against weaker offenses, making them an enticing option for fantasy managers. They’re owned in a mere 23.1% of ESPN leagues.
Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans present an average fantasy defense, ranking 14th with 6.0 points per game. Their best performance this season was a 19-point outing against the Colts in Week 6, while they endured a tough -1 point scoring in Week 1 against the Jets.
This week, they face off against the Browns. Cleveland has only been able to average 17.7 points per game, tying them for 28th in the league, and they’ve struggled to maintain momentum, scoring just 12.5 over their last two games. The Titans have a chance to build on last week’s performance and contribute positively to your fantasy team. They’re obtainable in 1.5% of ESPN leagues.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys currently have the least productive fantasy defense, averaging only 0.7 points per game. They've recorded two negative-scoring weeks against top offenses from the Ravens and Buccaneers and have yet to hit double figures, their best performance being a mere five points against the Packers.
This week, they will compete against the Philadelphia Eagles. After losing Jalen Hurts to injury, the Eagles will start Tanner McKee, who led to a disappointing 14-point total against the Panthers. While the Cowboys have struggled defensively, they might surprise owners with a decent showing given their improvement from previous weeks. Currently, they’re rostered in 11.6% of ESPN leagues.
Stay tuned for more insights and tips for your fantasy football lineups as the season progresses!