Dynasty Takeaways From Week 12

Kevin gives his top dynasty takeaways from Week 12!

As Week 12 comes to a close, dynasty managers are entering crunch time. Whether you're solidifying your playoff roster or planning for the offseason, understanding the trends shaping player values is key. This week’s takeaways dive into performances that are shifting long-term outlooks, backed by advanced stats to help you uncover hidden gems or potential trade targets.

We’ll also take a closer look at upcoming free-agent running backs who could see their values skyrocket in the right situation next year. From standout performances to subtle usage changes, every detail matters as we navigate the final stretch of the season. Let’s break down what Week 12 revealed and how it impacts your dynasty strategy moving forward.

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Minnesota Vikings TE T.J. Hockenson Looks Healthy

T.J. Hockenson reminded everyone why he’s one of the league’s top tight ends with a monster performance in Week 12. He caught seven of nine targets for 114 yards, including three explosive plays of 20+ yards. This marked his first 100-yard game since Week 10 of last season and showcased that he’s fully healthy after the Vikings cautiously ramped up his workload earlier in the year.

The game script worked in Hockenson’s favor, as the Bears defense focused heavily on slowing down Justin Jefferson, opening up opportunities for the versatile tight end. With Josh Oliver sidelined, Hockenson’s snap share rose to nearly 68%, his highest since returning from injury, and he didn’t disappoint. Most impressively, he delivered in clutch moments, with 102 of his 114 yards coming in the fourth quarter and overtime.

At just 27 years old, Hockenson continues to prove his value as an underrated dynasty asset. His recent resurgence solidifies him as a must-start option for the fantasy playoffs, and he looks primed for another big outing against the Cardinals in Week 13. If you bought low on Hockenson earlier this season or stashed him during his recovery, it’s paying off now in a big way.

Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)

• T.J. Hockenson FOR 2025 1st/2025 3rd

• T.J. Hockenson FOR Rachaad White

• T.J. Hockenson FOR DeVonta Smith

• T.J. Hockenson/2025 2nd FOR Baker Mayfield

• T.J. Hockenson FOR Mark Andrews/2025 3rd

Miami Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle Bounce Back Game?

Jaylen Waddle finally broke out in Week 12, silencing critics (ME) with a stellar performance. He caught 8 of 9 targets for 144 yards and a touchdown, setting season highs in both receptions and receiving yards. It was his first game hitting double-digit fantasy points in PPR since Week 1, and his 23-yard touchdown grab in the third quarter reminded us why he’s been such a coveted asset in the past.

While this performance is encouraging, it might also be the perfect time to cash out. Waddle’s upcoming playoff schedule is tough, featuring three cold-weather road games (Packers, Browns, Jets) and two challenging matchups against the 49ers and Jets at home. His target share in Miami’s offense still plays second fiddle to Tyreek Hill, limiting his week-to-week ceiling compared to other receivers with a more consistent volume.

If you can move Waddle for a more reliable option or package him in a deal to upgrade at another position, now might be the time to strike while the value is high. One great game doesn’t change the fact that there are wideouts with higher upside and more consistent roles in their respective offenses. Take advantage of the hype if the right trade offer comes along.

Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)

• Jaylen Waddle FOR 2025 1st

• Jaylen Waddle/Ameer Abdullah FOR J.J. McCarthy/2025 3rd

• Jaylen Waddle/David Montgomery FOR Dak Prescott/DeVonta Smith

• Jaylen Waddle FOR Rashee Rice/2025 2nd

• Jaylen Waddle FOR Bucky Irving/2025 2nd

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New England RB Rhamondre Stevenson’s Struggles Continue

Rhamondre Stevenson’s disappointing 2024 season continued in Week 12, with just 13 yards on eight carries and no receptions. While the offensive line deserves some blame, Stevenson hasn’t looked great either. This was supposed to be a favorable matchup, but the entire Patriots offense floundered, failing to generate a single red-zone play. Stevenson’s snap share dipped to a season-low 42%, as Antonio Gibson and JaMycal Hasty also saw time on the field.

Stevenson’s season has been wildly inconsistent. he’s had some high-end RB1 performances mixed with complete duds. After starting the season strong, he’s fallen into RB2 territory in recent weeks, with Week 12 marking one of his worst outings. While his workload has remained steady, game scripts and offensive struggles have capped his fantasy potential.

Looking ahead, the Patriots have a bye week and then face matchups against the Colts, Cardinals, Bills, and Chargers—three teams that have been vulnerable to running backs. However, if New England keeps playing from behind, more snaps could shift toward Gibson, especially in passing scenarios.

It might be time to consider selling Stevenson in dynasty leagues if he puts up another average outing. With the Patriots likely to add competition in the backfield during the draft, Stevenson’s long-term value is a bit shaky. For now, he’s a boom-or-bust play, best utilized in matchups where New England can keep things close.

Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)

• Rhamondre Stevenson FOR 2025 2nd/2025 4th

• Rhamondre Stevenson FOR Joe Mixon

• Rhamondre Stevenson FOR 2025 2nd

• Rhamondre Stevenson/Calvin Ridley FOR Chris Olave

• Rhamondre Stevenson/Jauan Jennings FOR Bucky Irving

Upcoming Free Agents To Monitor At Running Back

As we head into the offseason, the upcoming free-agent running back class leaves much to be desired. Outside of a few notable names, the group feels underwhelming, especially when you consider the star power expected in the loaded 2025 rookie class. With a deep pool of talent on the horizon, NFL teams may finally usher in a changing of the guard at the position. Established veterans could find their market value slipping, while younger backs seize opportunities to take over backfields. Let’s dive into the key names to monitor and their potential landing spots as the offseason approaches.

Aaron Jones, Minnesota Vikings

Aaron Jones delivered a strong performance in Week 12, carrying the ball 22 times for 106 yards and a touchdown while adding three receptions for 23 yards. His bounce-back effort after battling injuries reminded us of his reliability, highlighted by explosive runs of 41 and 13 yards. Now sitting at 798 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the season, Jones has been a steady contributor for the Vikings.

Looking ahead, his future in Minnesota is murky. The Vikings could opt to re-sign him on a team-friendly deal while targeting a young running back in the late first or early second round of the draft. Even in that scenario, Jones projects as a low-cost veteran option with a clear role in 2024. Fantasy managers looking for affordable depth should keep him on their radar, especially as his value could drop even further in the offseason.

Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)

• Aaron Jones FOR Jaylen Warren/2026 3rd

• Aaron Jones FOR 2025 2nd

• Aaron Jones FOR Jonathan Mingo/2025 2nd

• Aaron Jones FOR Jaylen Wright/2025 2nd

• Aaron Jones FOR Cole Kmet

Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns