Here we have the next DraftKings Thursday Night Football Showdown slate of the 2024 season- this time it’s New York @Pittsburgh? Whether you’re locking in a star like Garrett Wilson as your captain or hunting for value plays like Jaylen Warren, there’s a lot to consider.
This game could turn into a classic AFC grind-it-out battle, with Breece Hall and Najee Harris leading their respective ground attacks. Expect Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson to lean on their top targets — Davante Adams and George Pickens will be crucial to their game plans. The Jets’ defense remains a force despite recent challenges, while the Steelers’ pass rush is primed to put pressure on Rodgers in front of a raucous home crowd at Acrisure Stadium.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – New York @Pittsburgh Captain Picks
Breece Hall ($15,600 Capt/ $10,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Breece Hall has returned to his role as the Jets’ bell-cow back, racking up 169 total yards on 23 touches in last week’s loss to the Bills. Despite missing the end zone in his last three outings, Hall continues to generate explosive plays, including a 42-yard run that showcased his breakaway speed. With Todd Downing calling the plays, Hall has seen an increased workload, solidifying his position as a focal point of the Jets’ offense. Facing a Steelers defense that has been vulnerable against the run at times, Hall’s dual-threat ability makes him an enticing captain pick. If you expect the Jets to rely on their ground game, Hall is a high-upside option in this primetime matchup.
Garrett Wilson ($13,800 Capt/ $9,200 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Garrett Wilson had reestablished himself as a top receiver in the league, posting 21 catches for 208 yards and two touchdowns over his last two games. But, now the recent addition of Davante Adams could cut into Wilson’s target share. However, it might also lead to better matchups and higher-quality looks from Aaron Rodgers. Wilson has already proven his ability to deliver big games, even with fluctuating quarterback play, and remains a key piece in the Jets’ passing attack. With Rodgers targeting him frequently, Wilson has the potential to break off a game-changing play against a tough Steelers defense. While his ceiling might be slightly capped by Adams’ arrival, his chemistry with Rodgers keeps him in the captain conversation.
Najee Harris ($13,500 Capt/ $9,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Najee Harris looks set to lead the Steelers’ backfield in Week 7 after a full practice despite a rib injury. With Cordarrelle Patterson out and Jaylen Warren playing a secondary role, Harris is in line for a heavy workload against the Jets. The Pittsburgh offense has leaned on Harris to grind out tough yards, especially in physical matchups, and his involvement as a pass-catcher gives him additional fantasy upside. If you believe the Steelers will try to control the clock and keep Aaron Rodgers off the field, Harris could be a crucial piece of their game plan. He’s a solid captain pick for those expecting a run-heavy approach from Pittsburgh.
George Pickens ($12,600 Capt/ $8,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
George Pickens had a quiet performance in Week 6, catching three passes for 53 yards on eight targets against the Raiders. While his volume has been inconsistent, Pickens has the big-play ability that could swing a showdown lineup if he connects with Russell Willson on a deep ball. Despite his struggles to find the end zone, the Steelers continue to look his way in critical moments, and the opportunity is there for a breakout game. Against a Jets secondary that has given up some explosive plays, Pickens could be an interesting contrarian captain option. If you’re looking for a high-risk, high-reward play, Pickens has the potential to deliver a big performance under the Sunday night lights.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – New York @Pittsburgh Flex Picks
Davante Adams ($10,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Davante Adams is set to make his Jets debut after being acquired in a trade from the Raiders, and he comes in without any injury limitations. The star wideout hasn’t played since Week 3, but he’s been practicing without restrictions and is expected to have a full workload. Adams already has a strong rapport with Aaron Rodgers from their Green Bay days, making him an immediate threat to the Steelers’ secondary. If he hits the ground running, Adams could be in line for a high-volume game, making him a valuable flex option. His big-play potential paired with Rodgers’ deep-ball prowess gives him a high ceiling.
Aaron Rodgers ($9,600 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Aaron Rodgers has battled through an ankle injury but remains a full participant in practice, ensuring he’ll be ready to face the Steelers on Sunday night. With the addition of Davante Adams, Rodgers gets a familiar target back, adding firepower to the Jets’ passing attack. The veteran quarterback will look to exploit a Pittsburgh secondary that has been vulnerable at times this season, especially in high-pressure situations. His experience and chemistry with Adams make him a solid choice for fantasy managers looking to capitalize on the Jets’ aerial potential. If the game turns into a shootout, Rodgers could be a key piece in your lineup.
Russell Wilson ($9,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Russell Wilson is expected to get the starting nod for the Steelers, though Justin Fields might mix in for some snaps. The veteran quarterback has been out for six weeks with a lingering calf injury, but he’s back in action and looking to regain form. Wilson has been working on his chemistry with receivers like George Pickens, who hinted at the extra time spent in practice. While there’s some uncertainty around how many snaps he’ll share with Fields, Wilson’s return offers upside if the Steelers’ passing game can get on track against the Jets.
Allen Lazard ($7,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Allen Lazard showed off his deep-threat ability last week, catching six passes for 114 yards and a touchdown, including a 52-yard Hail Mary from Aaron Rodgers. Despite some struggles with drops earlier in the season, Lazard has solidified his role as the Jets’ secondary receiving option behind Garrett Wilson. With Davante Adams now in the mix, Lazard might see a slight dip in targets but could also benefit from less defensive attention. He’s a strong flex play for those seeking a mid-tier receiver with upside, especially if Rodgers continues to look his way in critical moments.
Pat Freiermuth ($6,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
Pat Freiermuth was held to just two catches for 16 yards in last week’s win, but he did nearly find the end zone on a play that was called back. Despite the Steelers’ inconsistent passing game, Freiermuth remains one of the top red-zone targets for both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. With the Jets likely focusing on stopping George Pickens, Freiermuth could sneak in some key receptions. He’s a decent flex option if you’re looking for a tight end with touchdown potential in a game that might come down to crucial red-zone plays.
Tyler Conklin ($4,400 Flex) ⭐️
Tyler Conklin is officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Steelers, but a full practice on Friday suggests he’s likely to play. Conklin has been a reliable target for Aaron Rodgers, playing 73 percent of the offensive snaps in last week’s game against the Bills. With Davante Adams joining the offense, Conklin’s target share could shift, but he remains a solid option in the short and intermediate passing game. If you’re looking for a low-cost tight end with some upside, Conklin could be a viable choice in this showdown.
Jaylen Warren ($4,000 Flex) ⭐️
Jaylen Warren returned from injury last week but struggled to find running room, totaling just 18 yards on nine touches against the Raiders. Despite the limited production, he serves as the change-of-pace back behind Najee Harris and offers some upside in passing situations. Warren has shown efficiency in his first two seasons, and with the Steelers potentially needing to mix things up offensively, he could see an increased role. He’s a risky, low-cost flex option but could provide value if Pittsburgh’s ground game gets going.
Dart Throw Plays (Various)
Here are a few dart plays to round out your lineup. These are high-risk, high-reward picks best suited for GPPs—not for cash games:
- Braelon Allen (RB, NYJ) $3,800 Flex –Braelon Allen’s role has been limited behind Breece Hall, but he did see some goal-line work in the Jets’ last game, nearly scoring a touchdown before it was called back. While his opportunities are few, Allen could surprise with a short-yardage touchdown, making him an interesting dart throw if you’re looking for a low-cost running back.
- Mike Williams (WR, NYJ) $3,400 Flex – Despite trade rumors and a limited role, Mike Williams is expected to suit up for the Jets against the Steelers. With Davante Adams, Garrett Wilson, and Allen Lazard ahead of him, Williams is unlikely to see many targets, but he could be a deep threat if the Jets take a few shots downfield. He’s a risky option but could pay off with a big play.
- Calvin Austin III (WR, PIT) $2,400 Flex – Calvin Austin III saw five targets last week but only managed 36 yards, highlighting his boom-or-bust potential. A potential quarterback switch to Russell Wilson could boost Austin’s production, but his inconsistent role in the Steelers’ offense keeps him a risky play. If you believe in the upside, he’s worth considering as a flyer.
- Van Jefferson (WR, PIT) $2,000 Flex – Van Jefferson has struggled to find a role in Pittsburgh’s offense, failing to see a target in his last outing despite playing 64 percent of the snaps. A switch to Russell Wilson at quarterback could potentially breathe life into Jefferson’s fantasy prospects, but he remains a low-floor option. Consider him only if you’re looking for a deep sleeper who might see increased involvement.
- Jeremy Ruckert (TE, NYJ) $1,600 Flex – Jeremy Ruckert has struggled to make an impact, recording just two catches for seven yards in the Jets’ loss to the Bills. With Tyler Conklin seeing more targets, Ruckert remains a clear backup in New York’s tight end room. However, he could be a surprise red-zone target if the Jets decide to mix things up against Pittsburgh.
- Darnell Washington (TE, PIT) $1,200 Flex – Darnell Washington made the most of his limited targets last week, catching both passes for 31 yards. While he remains behind Pat Freiermuth in the pecking order, his size makes him an intriguing red-zone option for the Steelers. Washington’s low volume keeps him a dart throw, but he could reward managers if he finds the end zone.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – New York @Pittsburgh Kickers and DSTs
Chris Boswell ($5,200) has been nearly automatic this season, converting all four of his field-goal attempts and both extra points in last week’s win over the Raiders. As the second-leading scorer among NFL kickers, Boswell’s consistency makes him a reliable option, especially if Pittsburgh’s offense stalls in Jets territory. Greg Zuerlein ($5,000) had a rough outing against the Bills, missing two crucial field-goal attempts that could have changed the game’s outcome. While he made two short kicks, the veteran’s struggles from longer distances in windy conditions raise some concerns. However, if the Jets can move the ball into scoring range, Zuerlein could be a solid play, especially in a lower-scoring affair.
Steelers DST ($4,800) has been dominant, racking up seven sacks, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions in their home games this season. They’ll face a new-look Jets offense that now features Davante Adams, but Pittsburgh’s ability to generate pressure and create turnovers makes them a strong play. Even with Aaron Rodgers at the helm, New York’s offense has been inconsistent, and Pittsburgh will look to capitalize on any mistakes. If you believe the Steelers can contain Adams and Rodgers, their defense could pay dividends in this matchup. Jets DST ($4,200) has shown signs of slipping without former head coach Robert Saleh, allowing 131 rushing yards and over 6 yards per play to the Bills last week. They’ve still been strong against opposing wide receivers, but the Steelers might exploit them with tight ends and running backs. With a challenging matchup against a Pittsburgh team that has been effective at home, the Jets’ defense is a riskier play. However, their knack for making big plays could make them a viable dart throw if you’re banking on turnovers.
So there you have it — our DraftKings picks for the 2024 New York @Pittsburgh! Whether you’re locking in lineups or just looking for that edge, we’ve got you covered. If you have any DFS questions shoot me a DM on twitter at @numeric_dfs. Also checkout our other KFS DFS articles here, and interact with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. We’re always ready to talk shop and help you build those winning rosters!
