Week 7 of the fantasy football season has arrived, and for dynasty managers, it’s officially gut-check time. By now, the line between contenders and pretenders is becoming clearer, and it’s time to make some tough decisions. Whether you’re in a prime position to make a championship run or staring down a rebuilding season, this is the week to solidify your strategy. Contenders need to push their chips in, strengthening their rosters for a title run. Meanwhile, those falling behind should focus on building for the future, acquiring draft capital, and stashing young talent for the long haul.
This week has also brought some massive injuries that are shaking up the fantasy landscape. Brandon Aiyuk tore his ACL, Chris Godwin dislocated his ankle, Mike Evans suffered a major hamstring injury, Jayden Daniels is dealing with a rib injury, Deebo Samuel was hospitalized with pneumonia, and Deshaun Watson tore his Achilles. With injuries piling up across the board, it's crucial for managers to adapt quickly. In this article, we’ll break down five key takeaways from Week 7 to help you navigate this crucial stretch. Whether you’re targeting breakout players, capitalizing on injury replacements, or selling veterans at peak value, these insights will help you determine if it’s time to contend or build for the future.
Injuries Continue To Mount
Injuries have hit hard this fantasy season, especially at the wide receiver position, leaving many managers scrambling to adjust. With big names going down, staying active on the trade market is crucial. Let’s dive into three major injuries from Week 7 and how to approach them in dynasty leagues.
Brandon Aiyuk: Aiyuk’s torn ACL and MCL is a crushing blow, both for the 49ers and his dynasty managers. After signing a massive four-year, $120 million extension this offseason, expectations were high, but his season ends with just 25 catches for 374 yards and no touchdowns. This injury shuts down any opportunity to sell high, as his value was already dipping due to disappointing production. Aiyuk still has long-term upside, but at this point, he’s more of a hold than a building block. Unless you’re a contender who can’t afford to wait, your best move is to stash Aiyuk and hope he regains some value next offseason. Here are the most recent deals revolving Aiyuk in dynasty:
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Brandon Aiyuk/2025 2nd FOR DK Metcalf
Brandon Aiyuk FOR Troy Franklin/Aaron Jones/Jordan Mason
Brandon Aiyuk FOR Terry McLaurin
Brandon Aiyuk FOR Davante Adams/2025 3rd
Brandon Aiyuk/2026 1st FOR Keon Coleman
Chris Godwin: Godwin was on pace for a fantastic season, leading the league in receptions and consistently delivering WR1/2 production before a dislocated ankle ended his 2024 campaign. The injury is devastating, especially as Godwin was proving doubters wrong after being labeled as a buy-low target this year. Heading into free agency next year at age 29, and with two major injuries in his rearview, Godwin’s dynasty outlook is uncertain. Still, he’s not a sell right now. If you can afford to hold him as a stash, that’s the play. He should bounce back, and needy teams might take interest as he rehabs toward 2025. Here are the most recent deals revolving Godwin in dynasty:
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Chris Godwin FOR Rashod Bateman
Chris Godwin FOR Romeo Doubs/2025 2nd
Chris Godwin/Rondale Moore FOR Michael Pittman
Chris Godwin FOR Keenan Allen
Chris Godwin FOR 2025 1st
Deshaun Watson: Watson’s Achilles injury is another blow to his already volatile dynasty value. Financially, he’s tied to the Browns with a near-uncuttable contract, meaning he’ll be on the roster for years to come. His performance was already concerning before the injury, but dynasty managers shouldn’t drop him just yet due to the massive guaranteed money owed to him. If you can't get anything more than a 2025 3rd, I would stash him on IR and hope for some value recovery next season, but he’s far from a trade target. Watson’s baggage—on and off the field—makes him a precarious hold, and he’s best left on someone else’s roster if you don’t already have him. Here are the most recent deals involving Watson in dynasty:
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Deshaun Watson FOR 2025 4th
Deshaun Watson FOR DeMario Douglas
Deshaun Watson FOR 2025 3rd
Deshaun Watson FOR Trey Sermon
Deshaun Watson FOR Gardner Minshew
Contender Buys
When it comes to dynasty buys, there are different types of players to target depending on your team’s situation. First, you’ve got one-year rentals—players whose value is maxed out this season and will likely decline, but they can help push you toward a championship right now. Then, there are older veterans who have at least a two-year window of production, making them worth the investment of a first-round draft pick. Finally, there are upside swings on younger players, especially those with new opportunities due to injuries. These are the players who could break out this season or next, with their value steadily climbing over the next few years, often fitting the rookie running back mold. Let’s dive into some of these potential buys.
Miami Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill
Tyreek Hill should be a top target for contenders looking to solidify their WR corps for the playoffs. Hill’s value is currently lower than usual due to the inconsistency in the Miami offense caused by Tua Tagovailoa’s injury issues, but that creates a window for dynasty managers to buy him at a discount. Hill was WR4 in Week 1, showing his explosive potential, but the team’s offensive struggles since have driven his price down. With Tua's return imminent, Hill is poised to return to his elite form, especially considering his game-breaking speed and ability to rack up yards. He's been the focal point of the Dolphins’ passing attack and is a reliable WR1 when healthy. For teams looking to make a strong playoff push, Hill offers a ceiling few players can match, and now is the time to pounce before his value skyrockets again.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Tyreek Hill FOR Ladd McConkey/2025 2nd
Tyreek Hill FOR Jordan Addison/2026 1st
Tyreek Hill FOR Josh Downs/2025 2nd
Tyreek Hill FOR Stefon Diggs/Jauan Jennings
Tyreek Hill FOR 2025 1st
LA Rams WR Cooper Kupp
Even after battling injuries this season, Cooper Kupp remains one of the most reliable and productive wide receivers in fantasy football when on the field. Whether he stays with the Rams or potentially gets traded, Kupp’s WR1 upside is undeniable for the rest of the season. His target share and connection with Matthew Stafford, when healthy, make him a cornerstone of the Rams’ offense. Kupp’s return to action couldn’t have come at a better time, and while his early-season injury may have scared some dynasty managers, that makes him a perfect buy-low candidate for contenders. His consistency in generating double-digit fantasy points each week and his ability to be a volume hog in PPR formats make him an excellent asset for a championship run. Kupp’s skill set allows him to dominate in short-yardage situations and in the red zone, giving him high upside and a relatively safe floor for the next couple of seasons.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Cooper Kupp FOR Bucky Irving/2025 2nd
Cooper Kupp FOR Tank Dell
Cooper Kupp FOR 2025 2nd
Cooper Kupp FOR Nick Chubb/2025 2nd
Cooper Kupp FOR Tyrone Tracy/DeMario Douglas
49ers WR Jauan Jennings
Jauan Jennings is a sneaky buy for contenders looking to add cheap, yet high-upside depth to their roster. Jennings steps into a significant role with Brandon Aiyuk out for the season due to injury, and the 49ers’ potent offense offers plenty of scoring opportunities. While Jennings has been somewhat of a boom-or-bust player, his time on the field has increased dramatically over recent weeks. His ability to produce in a high-powered offense, led by Brock Purdy, positions him to surprise down the stretch. Jennings won’t be a flashy WR1, but his target share is likely to rise, and he’s shown the ability to deliver when given opportunities. For contenders needing a depth piece who can fill in during bye weeks or injuries, Jennings is an affordable target with the potential to produce some big weeks.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Jauan Jennings FOR 2025 3rd
Jauan Jennings FOR Allen Lazard/2025 3rd
Jauan Jennings FOR Courtland Sutton
Jauan Jennings FOR Jahan Dotson
Jauan Jennings FOR Tyrone Tracy
Washington Commanders WR Terry McLaurin
Terry McLaurin continues to be a fantastic option for dynasty contenders, and his price may still be lower than it should be. Even in an up-and-down Washington offense, McLaurin has cemented himself as a target hog and the clear alpha receiver. His connection with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has been strong, and even when Daniels missed time due to injury, McLaurin managed to produce with backup Marcus Mariota. He’s been a model of consistency, with 35 catches, 454 yards, and four touchdowns so far this season. McLaurin’s ability to consistently rack up 100-yard games and score touchdowns makes him an attractive option for a contender needing reliable production down the stretch. With Washington playing better than expected and McLaurin clearly the focal point of the passing game, he’s a WR that could carry your team deep into the playoffs.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Terry McLaurin FOR Brandon Aiyuk
Terry McLaurin FOR Khalil Shakir/2026 2nd/2027 2nd
Terry McLaurin FOR 2026 2nd
Terry McLaurin FOR Chris Godwin
Terry McLaurin FOR 2027 1st
Cincinnati Bengals WR Tee Higgins
Tee Higgins represents a great buy opportunity for dynasty contenders due to his talent and his situation in one of the league’s most potent offenses. Although he’s struggled with injuries and inconsistency this season, Higgins has the ability to be a WR1 on almost any team. He’s a touchdown threat in every game, and even with Ja’Marr Chase drawing much of the defensive attention, Higgins continues to see a healthy target share. His contract situation could lead to him being on a new team next season, where he could step into a clear WR1 role. For now, he’s a strong piece to have for a playoff run, as the Bengals will continue to feature him in their offense down the stretch. If you’re a contender, Higgins is a buy and he could provide massive returns both this year and beyond.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Tee Higgins FOR Adonai Mitchell/Tucker Kraft
Tee Higgins FOR 2025 1st
Tee Higgins/2025 2nd FOR Jayden Reed
Tee Higgins FOR Kyle Pitts
Tee Higgins/Nick Chubb FOR George Pickens
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Najee Harris
While some managers are concerned about Najee Harris due to his slow start this season, he remains a strong buy for dynasty contenders. Harris has faced a lower snap share with Jaylen Warren in the mix, but he’s still managed back-to-back 100-yard rushing games and has regained some of his touchdown potential. With the Steelers offense improving and the offensive line starting to gel, Harris is poised to thrive as the focal point of the running game. His physical style of play wears down defenses, and his ability to handle a heavy workload makes him a valuable asset down the stretch, especially with a favorable schedule ahead. For contenders needing a workhorse running back, Harris is a player who can help deliver wins. His price may be depressed due to his early-season struggles and age, but he’s proven his value in this year and could be a key contributor in a championship run.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Najee Harris FOR 2027 2nd
Najee Harris FOR 2025 2nd
Najee Harris FOR Tyrone Tracy
Najee Harris FOR Darius Slayton/2025 2nd
Najee Harris FOR Troy Franklin/2026 2nd
Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce
Travis Kelce is a must-buy for any contender needing a difference-maker at the tight end position. Despite a slower start to the season by his standards, Kelce remains the top option in Kansas City’s high-powered offense and continues to see a significant target share from Patrick Mahomes. Even with lingering injuries, Kelce’s role in the Chiefs’ offense guarantees him a high floor weekly. Tight end production has been incredibly volatile this season, making Kelce’s consistency even more valuable. While this could be his final season at an above average level, he’s still one of the safest plays for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Travis Kelce FOR Zack Moss/2025 2nd
Travis Kelce FOR Tucker Kraft/2026 2nd
Travis Kelce FOR Tank Bigsby
Travis Kelce FOR Brian Robinson
Travis Kelce FOR Alvin Kamara
Noah Fant Revival?
I’m not saying Noah Fant has suddenly become the breakout tight end we’ve been waiting for since the Broncos drafted him, but there’s definitely reason to be encouraged by his recent performances. Over the past two games, Fant has caught all 10 of his targets and logged over 60 yards in each contest, finishing as the TE8 and TE12 for those weeks. While it’s not a massive leap forward, it’s certainly a step in the right direction. With D.K. Metcalf nursing a Grade 1 MCL sprain, Fant might see more targets or at least maintain his current share in the offense. He could have another big game this week against the Bills, who are giving up over seven catches per game against opposing tight ends. He’s performing well enough to be a weekly start and has a high floor right now as a fantasy tight end. With three games of 60+ receiving yards in his last five starts, Fant is showing some consistency. Depending on Metcalf's status, Fant’s role could increase more and should be an option for contenders who need tight-end help.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Noah Fant FOR Rico Dowdle/2025 3rd
Noah Fant/Zach Ertz FOR Daniel Jones
Noah Fant FOR 2025 3rd
Noah Fant FOR 2026 3rd
Noah Fant FOR Jaylen Warren
Kyle Pitts is a Top 5 Dynasty Tight End
Well, well, well—Kyle Pitts is finally starting to live up to the hype, and it’s about time. Over the last three weeks, he’s been averaging 74.3 receiving yards per game, despite Kirk Cousins having a couple of low-passing yardage outings. What’s more impressive is that this isn’t just the result of random big plays—Pitts has been a true target magnet. He’s seen 22 targets over this stretch and posted lines like 7-88, 3-70, and 7-65, landing him as the TE4 in total fantasy points during this span. The Falcons' offense is proving to be a blessing for his dynasty value, as all Pitts really needed to do was get consistent targets and catch the ball. He’s done both, and with his role solidifying, there’s no reason to believe his value will drop off anytime soon. Tied to Cousins, Pitts is a top-8 tight end moving forward and should comfortably hold top-5 dynasty value as long as this target volume sticks.
Dynasty Trades (12 Team SF/TE Premium)
Kyle Pitts FOR T.J. Hockenson
Kyle Pitts/JSN FOR Tee Higgins
Kyle Pitts/Tank Dell FOR Travis Kelce/Jared Goff
Kyle Pitts FOR Ricky Pearsall/Javonte Williams
Kyle Pitts/2025 2nd FOR DJ Moore
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