Here we have the next DraftKings Thursday Night Football Showdown slate of the 2024 season- this time it’s Denver @New Orleans? Whether you’re locking in a star like Alvin Kamara as your captain or hunting for value plays like Juwan Johnson, there’s a lot to consider.
This game has the potential to be a low-scoring grind, with Kamara and Javonte Williams leading their respective rushing attacks. Expect rookie quarterbacks Bo Nix and Spencer Rattler to lean on their top targets — Courtland Sutton and Devaughn Vele for Denver, Bub Means and Juwan Johnson for New Orleans. Both defenses have shown flashes of dominance this season, so it could come down to which side can create key turnovers and capitalize on field position.
DraftKings TNF Showdown 2024 – Denver @New Orleans Captain Picks
Alvin Kamara ($17,700 Capt/ $11,800 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alvin Kamara has been the engine of the Saints’ offense this season, averaging a hefty 22 touches per game for 111 yards from scrimmage. Despite dealing with a hand injury during practice, he has no designation for Thursday’s game and should continue to handle a full workload. Kamara’s ability to impact the game as both a runner and receiver gives him immense upside, especially in a matchup where the Saints may rely on their ground game to control the tempo. With seven total touchdowns in six games, he’s always a threat to find the end zone multiple times. Kamara is a strong Captain choice, offering a high floor and the potential for a ceiling game against a struggling Denver defense.
Courtland Sutton ($16,200 Capt/ $10,800 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Courtland Sutton has been a steady presence in Denver’s passing game, highlighted by his 37-yard touchdown catch in last week’s matchup against the Chargers. He’s now up to two touchdowns on the season, and with Bo Nix developing under center, Sutton could be in line for more red-zone opportunities. As the Broncos’ most reliable wideout, Sutton should see a decent target share, especially if Denver finds itself playing from behind against a tough Saints team. His big-play ability makes him a high-upside Captain option, particularly in lineups looking to capitalize on a potential breakout performance. Sutton is a strong choice if you think the Broncos’ passing game can exploit New Orleans’ secondary.
Bo Nix ($14,100 Capt/ $9,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bo Nix is showing signs of progress as he adjusts to the NFL, throwing two touchdowns for the second straight game while adding 61 rushing yards in last week’s loss. His ability to contribute with both his arm and his legs makes him a dynamic option, especially in a matchup where Denver might need to lean on him to keep pace with New Orleans. Nix’s rushing prowess (180 yards and three touchdowns on the ground this season) gives him a higher floor than many other quarterbacks in the same price range. With the Saints’ secondary presenting a challenge, Nix’s mobility could be a key factor in Thursday’s showdown. If you’re looking for a Captain option with dual-threat upside, Nix is a solid pick.
Javonte Williams ($13,200 Capt/ $8,800 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
Javonte Williams has struggled to find consistency this season, but his role as the Broncos’ lead back keeps him in the fantasy conversation. He’s averaging just 3.6 yards per carry and has yet to score a touchdown, but his dual-threat ability as a pass-catcher gives him some additional value. The matchup against New Orleans is tough, with the Saints boasting a strong run defense, but if Denver can keep the game close, Williams should see a solid number of touches. His recent fumble is a concern, but it could also serve as motivation for a bounce-back performance. Williams is a risky Captain play, but he could pay off if Denver leans on him to control the clock.
DraftKings TNF Showdown 2024 – Denver @New Orleans Flex Picks
Spencer Rattler ($9,200 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
Rattler will make his second consecutive start for the Saints with Derek Carr still sidelined, and he’s coming off a solid performance where he threw for 243 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. The rookie showed poise against a tough Buccaneers defense, finding Bub Means for his first career touchdown pass. While his turnovers remain a concern, Rattler’s willingness to push the ball downfield gives him upside in DFS lineups. Against a Denver defense that has been inconsistent, he’s a viable option if you believe the Saints will keep the game competitive through the air.
Juwan Johnson ($6,800 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Johnson recorded a season-high 48 receiving yards last week, showing a solid connection with rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler. With New Orleans leaning on their tight ends more in Carr’s absence, Johnson has become a reliable target, catching all three of his looks against the Buccaneers. His role in the offense appears to be expanding, which bodes well for his fantasy value heading into Thursday’s game against Denver. Johnson is a solid mid-priced option if you think Rattler will continue to look his way as a safety valve.
Jaleel McLaughlin ($5,800 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
McLaughlin has continued to serve as Denver’s No. 2 running back, splitting snaps with Javonte Williams in an underwhelming backfield. He saw just three carries last week but added a pair of receptions, showing some versatility. With rookie Audric Estime set to rejoin the lineup, the Broncos’ backfield could become even more crowded, making McLaughlin a risky play. Still, his ability to catch passes gives him a path to production, especially if Denver finds itself in passing situations against New Orleans.
Devaughn Vele ($4,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vele re-emerged as a factor in Denver’s offense last week, catching four passes for 78 yards and tying Courtland Sutton for the team lead in targets. The rookie’s ability to stretch the field could come in handy against a Saints secondary that’s been hit by injuries. With inconsistent playing time throughout the season, Vele is a boom-or-bust play, but his recent involvement makes him an intriguing low-cost option. If he maintains a significant role, he could easily outperform his price tag on Thursday night.
Bub Means ($4,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Means made a surprising impact last week, hauling in five catches for 45 yards and a touchdown, capitalizing on Chris Olave’s early exit due to a concussion. With Olave and Rashid Shaheed both ruled out, Means should see more opportunities in the Saints’ passing game, making him a great value play. While he’s still unproven, the rookie has shown he can step up when called upon, and the short week could mean more targets in his direction. If you’re looking for a cheap option with touchdown upside, Means is worth a look.
Cedric Wilson Jr. ($3,200 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
Wilson is set to play a key role in the Saints’ passing attack with Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed ruled out for Thursday night. He’s battled through an ankle injury but remains active, likely stepping into three-wide sets alongside Mason Tipton and Bub Means. Wilson’s experience and versatility could make him a sneaky DFS play, particularly in a game where New Orleans may have to rely on lesser-known receivers. At his price, he offers low-cost exposure to a passing game that will need contributions from its depth.
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:
- Lil’ Jordan Humphrey (WR, DEN) $4,000 Flex – Humphrey’s involvement has fluctuated, seeing just one target for eight yards last week. As Denver’s passing game continues to search for consistency, he’s a high-risk option who might benefit if the Broncos fall behind and need to throw more.
- Jamaal Williams (RB, NO) $3,600 Flex -Williams has struggled to make an impact in recent weeks, with just 26 rushing yards over his last four games. He’s unlikely to see a significant workload behind Kamara, but he could vulture a goal-line carry if the Saints get into the red zone.
- Foster Moreau (TE, NO) $2,800 Flex – Moreau hauled in both of his targets for 54 yards last week, including a 41-yard reception from rookie Spencer Rattler. While Juwan Johnson remains the top tight end target, Moreau’s ability to make big plays gives him some dart throw appeal.
- Kendre Miller (RB, NO) $2,400 Flex – Miller has been activated from injured reserve and is expected to suit up for Thursday’s game, but his role remains uncertain behind Alvin Kamara. If the Saints opt to lighten Kamara’s load slightly due to his hand injury, Miller could see a few extra touches.
- Mason Tipton (WR, NO) $1,600 Flex – With Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed out, Tipton could see more snaps in the Saints’ receiving corps. However, he’s facing a tough Denver secondary that has been stingy against wideouts, making him a risky play despite the opportunity.
- Adam Trautman (TE, DEN) $600 Flex – Trautman was held without a target last week and has been used sparingly in the Broncos’ passing game. With a limited role and competition from other tight ends, he’s a long shot but could surprise if Denver shifts its game plan.
DraftKings TNF Showdown 2024 – Denver @New Orleans Kickers and DSTs
Will Lutz ($5,400) was perfect on his kicks last week, making both his field goal and extra-point attempt in Denver’s 23-16 loss to the Chargers. However, the Broncos’ inconsistent offense has limited his opportunities, making him a risky but potentially rewarding option against his former team, the Saints. Blake Grupe ($5,000) bounced back with two field goals and three extra points in the Saints’ high-scoring loss to the Buccaneers. With New Orleans struggling to find the end zone consistently, Grupe could see multiple field goal attempts again, especially if Denver’s stout defense forces stalled drives.
Saints DST ($5,200) have been effective in keeping opponents out of the end zone, allowing touchdowns on just 38% of red-zone trips, second only to the Broncos. With a game total set at a low 37 points, the Saints’ defense could be a solid play, particularly if they continue their trend of forcing turnovers against a mistake-prone Denver offense. Broncos DST ($4,800) has been quietly impressive, allowing just 16 points per game, ranking fourth in the NFL. Their strength lies in their pass defense, which gives up only 170 yards per game, though the potential absence of star cornerback Patrick Surtain due to a concussion could make them more vulnerable.
So there you have it — our DraftKings picks for the 2024 Denver@New Orleans! 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!
