ClutchPoints
It’s the little things that make a difference for fantasy football, and kickers are part of the mix in some of these leagues. Defenses are a key part of it as well. So let’s take a look at the NFL Week 17 2025 start ‘em, sit ‘em advice for defenses and special teams.
In this article, we’re going to bypass diving into the obvious. But to make sure it doesn’t get completely passed over, the Denver Broncos are the No. 1 option for Week 17. And there’s no other defense that is close.
But let’s take a look at the rest of the picture.
There are many reasons to like the Steelers here. First, they played very well on defense against the explosive Lions last week. They gave up some yards and a few points, but got after the quarterback with six sacks. And the Steelers won the game.
Also, even though T.J. Watt didn’t have a great season by his standards before his injury, other players have stepped up with good efforts. Included in that mix is defensive lineman Cam Heyward, according to post-gazette.com.
“Heyward is earning every bit of his contract, and more,” Christopher Carter wrote. “He’s put himself in All-Pro territory this season as a premier run stuffer and pass rusher. Though he only has 3.5 sacks on the season, [the Lions game] was another week with seven pressures. And his presence in the run game continues to be one of the best in the NFL.
“One of his more impressive plays this week was his recognition of the Lions’ shovel pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown in the red zone. It fooled most of the defense. But Heyward stayed home and bought time for Jack Sawyer to come and finish the play. If he makes first-team All-Pro, it will be the fifth time he’s done it in his career, which would surpass that of even Joe Greene.”
Plus, the Steelers will face quarterback Shedeur Sanders. He has been sacked 12 times over his last four games while also handing out Christmas presents in the form of six interceptions.
The Steelers will come hard and heavy at Sanders, likely the same approach they had against Jared Goff. There’s a decent chance of a pick-six in this game.
This is a situation where fantasy football managers need to ignore last week. The Titans played well on offense, but it came against an injured Chiefs team that had checked out after missing the playoffs.
Part of the reason the Saints’ defense has some teeth is the impressive coaching job of Kellen Moore over the past month or so. Defensive end Cam Jordan said things are pointing toward a good direction, according to LouisianaSports.com.
“I see a bright future with all the guys that we have,” Jordan said. “We have such a talented young core. We have such talented veterans. We have a combination....
