Week 13 was an absolute blast, wasn’t it? No bye weeks meant everyone was in action, and the fantasy landscape was alive with surprises—two streamers cracking the top-3, and those fades? Yep, they faded like clockwork. But as fun as Week 13 was, Week 14 brings a new beast to tackle. Six teams are on bye, and four of those teams have kickers who are fantasy-relevant. That leaves nearly a third of your league scrambling for a solution to their kicker dilemma. So, if you’re hunting for a dependable leg this week, don’t wait—snag one while the pickings are good. Let’s dive into the hot streams and fades for Week 14.
Streams to Consider
Will Reichard (or John Parker Romo) – Minnesota Vikings (4% rostered)
This Vikings kicker situation is downright fascinating, and it’s rare to see a team blessed with two great kickers. Will Reichard, perfect in his rookie campaign before landing on IR in Week 9, was a gem. But then, in stepped John Parker Romo, who didn’t skip a beat. Over the past four weeks, Romo nailed 11 of 12 field goal attempts and converted 7 of 8 PATs.
However, Reichard’s practice window opened on Tuesday, and all signs point to the Vikings shifting back to him soon. Keep an eye on this—the Vikings haven’t officially moved on from Romo, but it’s expected any day now.
Regardless of which kicker gets the nod, the team is what matters most here. And the Vikings are in a prime position this week against Atlanta. The Falcons have allowed the second-most fantasy points to kickers this season, while the Vikings are averaging a solid 2.3 field goal attempts per game. Add in the fact that this game is indoors, with the Vikings as favorites boasting the 7th-highest implied point total, and you have a recipe for fantasy gold. Target Minnesota’s kicker—Reichard or Romo—without hesitation.
Chase McLaughlin – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (32% rostered)
If you’ve been following my picks, you probably saw this coming. Chase McLaughlin was on my radar last week, and here we are again! Tampa Bay’s offense finally looked like its early-season self in Week 13, and McLaughlin rewarded fantasy managers even after missing one field goal attempt.
Week 14 offers McLaughlin one of the juiciest matchups imaginable. Las Vegas has been a kicker’s paradise, allowing the most fantasy points to the position. In fact, only twice in the past 13 weeks has an opponent scored fewer than 10 fantasy points against them.
Here’s the catch—McLaughlin may land on my fade list next week, but that’s a problem for future you. For now, focus on the present. Grab McLaughlin, reap the rewards, and worry about Week 15 when it comes.
Nick Folk – Tennessee Titans (1% rostered)
This pick might feel bold—and maybe even a little scary—but isn’t that part of the fun? Despite their 3-9 record, the Titans have been a sneaky source of fantasy value. Will Levis is unpredictable, but his daring style leads to plenty of stalled drives, creating opportunities for Folk. Over the past five weeks, Tennessee has averaged two or more field goal attempts per game.
This week, the Titans face Jacksonville in a divisional showdown. The Jaguars have been kind to opposing kickers lately, surrendering double-digit fantasy points in four of their last five games. If you’re feeling adventurous, Folk could be the sleeper pick that pays off big.
Fades to Avoid
Matthew Wright – Kansas City Chiefs
This is a hill I’ll die on—don’t start kickers against the Los Angeles Chargers. It’s a fantasy anomaly, but the Chargers have yet to allow a double-digit performance to a kicker this season. Until that changes, fading whoever faces them is the smart play. Sorry, Matthew Wright.
Younghoe Koo – Atlanta Falcons
Younghoe Koo has long been a fan favorite, but this season hasn’t been kind to him. Call it the yips or just bad luck, but his sub-75% accuracy is hard to trust. Minnesota has been tough on kickers, so starting Koo this week feels like a losing gamble.
Dustin Hopkins – Cleveland Browns
Dustin Hopkins has been a disappointment this season, especially for fantasy managers who remember his reliable days. His accuracy percentage is sitting at an unimpressive 69.9%, and he’s only cracked the top 12 three times all year. Facing the Steelers—a team that has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to kickers—Hopkins is an easy pass for Week 14.
When you combine his struggles with the tough matchup, you’re better off looking elsewhere. Tempting fate with Hopkins isn’t worth the risk.
Key Takeaways
- Seize the Streamers Early: With six teams on bye, competition for kickers will be fierce. If you need a replacement, don’t delay—grab one of the top options now before they’re gone.
- Minnesota’s Kicker: Whether it’s Reichard or Romo, the Vikings’ kicker is the best streaming option this week. Take advantage of the favorable matchup and solid offensive setup.
- Stay Away from the Fades: Koo and Hopkins may have name recognition, but their recent performances and tough Week 14 matchups make them landmines. Avoid the trap.
Week 14 may be challenging, but it’s nothing we can’t handle. With a roster fortified by handcuff running backs, sleeper wide receivers, and spot-on kicker picks, you’re ready to dominate. So, let’s lock in those lineups, make the smart plays, and crush this final regular season fantasy game. Let’s go!
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