Week 7 of the 2024 fantasy football season is upon us, and setting the optimal lineup is crucial as ever. While skill positions like quarterback, running back, and wide receiver get most of the attention, veteran fantasy managers know that kickers can often provide the margin of victory in tight matchups. With that in mind, let’s dive into the expert consensus kicker rankings for this pivotal week.
Kickers on the Rise
Several kickers are seeing their stock rise heading into Week 7 thanks to favorable matchups and recent strong performances. Chief among them is Evan McPherson of the Cincinnati Bengals. The third-year pro has been money this season, connecting on 93% of his field goal tries including a perfect 6-for-6 from 50+ yards. With the high-powered Bengals offense facing the porous Detroit Lions defense, McPherson has the potential for a week-winning performance.
Also climbing the rankings is Harrison Butker of the Kansas City Chiefs. Butker is coming off a season-best five field goal outing in Week 6 and now gets to kick in the thin air of Denver against the Broncos. With Patrick Mahomes and company moving the ball at will, Butker should see plenty of scoring chances.
Sleepers to Target
If you’re looking to stream a kicker or need an injury replacement, consider these under-the-radar options who could outperform expectations in Week 7:
- Mason Crosby, Green Bay Packers – The ageless wonder is still getting it done in his 18th season. A matchup with Washington’s inconsistent defense could yield a vintage Crosby performance.
- Brandon McManus, Denver Broncos – As mentioned, kickers tend to thrive in the Mile High City. Even in a disappointing Broncos season, McManus has been solid and could notch double-digit points against the Chiefs.
- Matt Prater, Arizona Cardinals – Don’t let Prater’s low ownership fool you. The veteran has drilled multiple 50+ yard kicks in three straight games and faces a Saints defense allowing the 5th-most fantasy points to kickers.
Fading Stars
Even the elite kickers have tough matchups sometimes. Justin Tucker of the Ravens, the consensus #1 option most weeks, faces a stingy Cleveland Browns defense allowing the fewest fantasy points to the position. Tucker’s talent keeps him in the top 12, but managers with quality alternatives may consider benching the future Hall-of-Famer.
The same goes for Tyler Bass, who has been a set-it-and-forget-it stud for the Bills. But a road date with the Packers, who have yielded just six field goal attempts all season, limits his ceiling. Bass falls out of the top five in most expert rankings this week.
Kickers to Avoid
While researching kicker options, fantasy managers may be tempted by a few names who have delivered in the past but are risky plays for Week 7. These include:
- Matt Gay, Los Angeles Rams – Gay has scuffled a bit after a dominant 2023, and a matchup with the 49ers and their top-ranked defense is a recipe for more struggles.
- Daniel Carlson, Los Angeles Raiders – The Vegas offense isn’t giving Carlson enough opportunities, as he’s attempted just nine field goals through six games. A matchup with the stingy Texans doesn’t figure to help.
- Chris Boswell, Pittsburgh Steelers – The Steelers’ offensive woes have limited Boswell to six field goal tries all season. Even against the Dolphins’ suspect defense, the veteran doesn’t crack the top 20 in most rankings.
The Bottom Line
Kicker is often viewed as the most frustrating position in fantasy football, with missed kicks and fluky outputs ruining otherwise solid lineup decisions. But by paying close attention to matchups, stadiums, and which offenses are moving the ball consistently, savvy managers can turn this spot into an advantage.
Keep a close eye on the expert consensus rankings as Week 7 draws closer, as injuries and weather forecasts can affect the pecking order. Those in leagues with short benches or who stream the position will want to put in waiver claims early, as the top weekly options tend to get scooped up quickly.
But wherever your kicker slot lands, resist the urge to overthink it. At a position where variance is king, sometimes your gut is the best guide. Trust the process, make an informed choice, and hope that your kicker is the one celebrating a game-winner while your opponent’s guy is hanging his head on the sideline.
Best of luck in Week 7, and may all your field goal attempts sail true.
