Week 17 presents a slate defined by late-season attrition and specific statistical trends. With injuries thinning the quarterback options, the strategy shifts toward targeting offenses with high implied totals and quarterbacks facing defenses that rank in the bottom tier for points allowed and pass efficiency.  Let's take a look at this weeks top DFS QB plays for DraftKings and FanDuel.

 

NFL DFS QB Top Tier Picks

Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals vs. Arizona Cardinals

The Bengals enter this matchup ranking 8th in passing yards per game (231.6), facing an Arizona defense that ranks 29th in points allowed (27.6 PPG). With the Cardinals missing key secondary pieces like Budda Baker, the data suggests Cincinnati can move the ball efficiently against a unit that has allowed 53 combined points over its last two games. Cincinnati currently holds the highest implied team total on the slate at 30.25 points, indicating the offense is expected to be productive. With Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins healthy, Burrow provides a strong floor and ceiling combination against a statistically bottom-tier pass defense.

Drake Maye, New England Patriots vs. New York Jets

New England enters this contest as a 13.5-point favorite, implying a game script where they should control scoring opportunities against the Jets. Maye will be without Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins due to injury, but the offense remains capable with veteran Stefon Diggs, tight end Hunter Henry, and rookie Kyle Williams expected to absorb the vacant target share. The Jets' defense has seen a decline in efficiency recently, allowing 30+ points in three consecutive weeks. Given the expected positive game script and Maye's consistent usage, he remains a viable option in all formats.

Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts

This divisional game features one of the highest over/under totals on the slate at 48.5 points, suggesting a favorable environment for scoring at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Jaguars have averaged 26.5 points per game over their last four contests, and Lawrence faces a Colts defense that primarily runs a Cover-3 scheme he has targeted effectively this season. The indoor setting typically favors passing efficiency, and both teams rank in the top 10 for pace of play. Lawrence projects as a solid tournament option given the potential for high volume in a close, high-scoring game.

 

NFL DFS QB Mid-Tier Picks

Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals vs. Cincinnati Bengals

The Cardinals currently rank 7th in the NFL in passing yards per game (235.1), and Brissett has maintained high passing volume since becoming the starter. He faces a Bengals defense that ranks 32nd in points allowed (30.5 PPG) and has specifically struggled against tight ends, ranking as the worst team in the NFL defending that position. This specific defensive liability favors tight end Trey McBride, who serves as the primary focal point of the Cardinals' passing attack. As 7-point underdogs, Arizona will likely be in a passing game script, making the Brissett-McBride correlation a logical play based on volume and matchup.

Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Miami Dolphins

Tampa Bay is a 5.5-point favorite with an implied team total of 25 points, placing Mayfield in a favorable spot for production. The Dolphins' pass defense ranks in the bottom 10 in DVOA against explosive plays, which aligns with Tampa Bay's vertical passing attack. Mayfield has recorded 23 passing touchdowns this season and fits well into this matchup against a defense that struggles to limit deep passing attempts. He offers 300-yard potential at a mid-tier valuation, allowing for roster flexibility at other positions.

 

NFL DFS QB Value Picks

Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans vs. New Orleans Saints

Despite the Titans' 3-12 record, Ward has demonstrated consistency, recording at least two passing touchdowns in three straight games. The Saints are favored by only 2.5 points, which implies a competitive game script that should keep the Tennessee offense aggressive. Ward’s rushing ability provides a helpful baseline for his fantasy production, even if passing yardage varies. Given his recent touchdown production and lower cost, he serves as a functional punt option for tournament lineups.

NFL DFS QB Fades

Jaxson Dart, New York Giants vs. Las Vegas Raiders

This matchup carries significant draft implications, as the loser of this game effectively secures the #1 overall pick in the 2026 Draft, leaving neither team with a strong incentive to win. The low Vegas total of 41.5 points suggests a defensive game where the Giants may prioritize the run to minimize risk. Between the lack of competitive motivation and Dart's rookie volatility, the range of outcomes here is too wide to trust.

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