Each fantasy football season, there’s that one player—you know the type—who comes out of nowhere to single-handedly drag your team to glory. These underdogs turn a frustrating year into an unforgettable December, cementing their place in fantasy lore.
For me, it was Patrick Jeffers in 1999. I still dream about those stats and wonder where he is today. Seriously, Patrick, if you’re reading this, hit me up—you’ve earned a lifetime supply of holiday cards from me. Anyway, let’s not dwell too much on my borderline creepy nostalgia. Instead, let’s dig into four players who could be this year’s surprise playoff game-changers. These names might not make you swoon now, but just wait.
1. Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints
Kendre Miller is already gaining traction as a potential breakout candidate for the playoffs. He’s shown flashes of brilliance in limited usage, posting solid stats with 19 carries for 78 yards and a touchdown over Weeks 14 and 15. That 4.1 YPC (yards per carry) is nothing to scoff at, folks.
Here’s the kicker: Alvin Kamara is dealing with a nagging groin injury, and Miller might find himself thrust into a lead role. If that happens, he’s primed to shine in Week 17 against a leaky Raiders defense. Imagine Miller bulldozing his way to a championship-winning performance.
Wouldn’t that just be poetic? The guy’s been simmering on the edges of relevance—this could be the moment he boils over.
2. Jerome Ford, Cleveland Browns
Jerome Ford has already had a taste of the fantasy spotlight this season. After Nick Chubb’s unfortunate injury, Ford stepped into the role of Cleveland’s lead back. The results? A mixed bag. But hey, we’re not here for perfection; we’re here for upside.
Ford’s stat line this season includes 451 rushing yards at an impressive 5.2 YPC, capped off with two touchdowns. He’s a boom-or-bust player, no doubt, but he’s headed for a tasty matchup against the Bengals this week. If Cleveland’s offensive line holds up, Ford could easily pop off for a big game, making him an intriguing option for those of us desperate for a miracle.
3. Hollywood Brown, Kansas City Chiefs
Okay, this one might feel like cheating. Hollywood Brown isn’t exactly a no-name rando. But let’s be real: injuries and inconsistency have pushed him down the radar this year. Now, he’s poised for a comeback—just in time for the fantasy playoffs.
Kansas City’s offense has been starved for reliable playmakers, and Brown could be the answer. With Patrick Mahomes slinging the ball, Brown’s speed and route-running make him a dangerous weapon. Plus, he’s returning for a juicy Week 17 matchup against Houston. If Mahomes is healthy, the Mahomes-to-Brown connection could be lethal. Imagine the points!
4. Cooper Rush, Dallas Cowboys
Yeah, I know. Cooper Rush? Really? Hear me out. This guy gives off serious Billy Volek vibes—the “swing for the fences” type of quarterback who can go nuclear for a game or two.
Rush has quietly amassed 1,405 passing yards this season with 10 touchdowns. His efficiency isn’t jaw-dropping (59.6% completion rate), but we’re not drafting him to be a model of consistency. He’s a high-risk, high-reward play.
If you’re in a bind during the semifinals, consider this: Rush might find himself in a wild shootout against Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers. That matchup screams fantasy potential. Sure, Championship Week against Philly’s defense will probably crush his soul, but by then, he might’ve already carried you to the final.
Fantasy playoffs are all about taking calculated risks and trusting your gut. Will these four players deliver? Maybe, maybe not. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that the fantasy gods have a way of smiling on the bold.
So, go ahead. Roll the dice on one of these underdogs. Who knows—maybe in a decade, you’ll be writing your own holiday cards to Kendre Miller.
Good luck, fantasy warriors. The playoffs await.
