Ready to crush the next 2024 season TNF DraftKings showdown slate (of Pittsburgh @Cleveland)? Whether you’re building around a star like George Pickens in the captain spot or finding value plays like Jerome Ford, there’s no shortage of strategies to consider.
This game promises to be a hard-fought divisional battle, with both teams relying on their defenses to dictate the tempo. Expect Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston to lean on their playmakers, including Najee Harris and Jerry Jeudy, in a matchup that could come down to turnovers and clock control. With the Browns facing questions on the ground and the Steelers’ defense finding its groove, this one is shaping up to be a gritty primetime clash.
DraftKings TNF Showdown 2024 – Pittsburgh @Cleveland Captain Picks
George Pickens ($16,500 Capt/ $11,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
George Pickens is a key weapon in Pittsburgh’s passing attack and should be a top consideration for the captain slot. He led the team in receptions, targets, and yards last week, showcasing his chemistry with Russell Wilson. Over the past four games, Pickens has racked up an impressive 22-365-2 line on 33 targets, highlighting his consistency and big-play ability. Against a Browns defense that has allowed explosive plays through the air, Pickens has the upside to deliver a massive fantasy performance. If Pittsburgh continues to lean on him as their primary receiver, he could easily lead all scorers in this matchup.
Najee Harris ($13,800 Capt/ $9,200 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Najee Harris may not be dominating on the ground lately, but his involvement in the passing game and high-touch workload keep him relevant. Coming off an 18-touch game where he also caught four passes, Harris has the versatility to deliver a strong fantasy performance. The Browns’ defense has been gashed by the run recently, including a massive performance by Taysom Hill, which could set Harris up for a bounce-back game. If Pittsburgh can establish the run early, Harris has the potential to find the end zone and rack up valuable yards. He’s a safer captain pick with a steady floor and touchdown upside.
Jerry Jeudy ($12,000 Capt/ $8,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jerry Jeudy exploded for a season-high performance last week, highlighted by an 89-yard touchdown reception. Now that Jameis Winston is spreading the ball effectively, Jeudy stands out as Cleveland’s top deep threat. While Pittsburgh’s defense is strong, they’ve occasionally struggled with big plays downfield, making Jeudy a prime candidate for another standout performance. With Cleveland likely to lean on their passing game, Jeudy’s role as a go-to target gives him a legitimate chance to lead all fantasy scorers in this showdown. He’s a strong captain choice for players banking on the Browns’ vertical attack.
Cedric Tilman ($10,500 Capt/ $7,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cedric Tillman has become one of Cleveland’s most reliable targets, even in a crowded receiving corps. Despite a quieter game last week, he remains a pivotal part of the Browns’ offense with a 21-255-3 line over his previous three games before the bye. His volume remains high, and if Jameis Winston maintains his aggressive passing approach, Tillman is bound to see opportunities. While the Steelers’ defense poses a challenge, Tillman’s ability to make contested catches makes him an intriguing captain option. He’s a high-ceiling play for managers looking to capitalize on Cleveland’s aerial attack.
DraftKings TNF Showdown 2024 – Pittsburgh @Cleveland Flex Picks
Russell Wilson ($10,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Russell Wilson has stabilized the Steelers’ offense since taking over as the starter, winning four straight games. Although his Week 11 performance was lackluster, Wilson’s steady hand and occasional rushing upside make him a reliable flex option. He faces a Browns defense that could struggle in inclement weather, giving Wilson an opportunity to lean on his short passing game. If Pittsburgh’s ground game stalls, expect Wilson to deliver solid production through the air.
Jameis Winston ($9,600 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jameis Winston has been slinging the ball at a high volume, attempting over 40 passes in each of his last three starts. Despite a tough matchup and the potential for bad weather in Cleveland, Winston’s ability to air it out keeps him in play as a flex option. His 395-yard, two-touchdown performance last week showcased his ceiling, but expect Cleveland to lean more on the run if conditions are challenging. If you’re targeting a stack with Cleveland receivers, Winston should be the centerpiece of your lineup.
Nick Chubb ($9,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nick Chubb has been easing back into action after injury, and his efficiency showed signs of improvement last week with a season-best 4.5 yards per carry. Given the expected poor weather conditions, Chubb could see an expanded workload against Pittsburgh’s stout front. His light workload in Week 11 suggests the Browns were saving him for this divisional showdown. If Cleveland leans on their star back, Chubb has the potential to be a difference-maker in lineups.
David Njoku ($7,600 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
David Njoku has been one of Winston’s favorite targets since Week 8, and his consistent involvement makes him a great value play. While a tough Steelers defense and bad weather may limit his ceiling, Njoku’s red-zone usage keeps him in play for a touchdown-dependent outing. With Cleveland relying on shorter passes in windy conditions, Njoku could see enough volume to justify his price tag. He’s a dependable flex with potential for upside in a low-scoring affair.
Elijah Moore ($6,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Elijah Moore’s role in Cleveland’s offense has grown significantly with Jameis Winston under center. Despite a tough Steelers secondary, Moore’s volume and versatility make him an intriguing option, especially in PPR formats. Weather concerns could shift Cleveland’s offense toward shorter, high-percentage throws, which plays to Moore’s strengths as a possession receiver. He’s a strong flex choice if you’re looking for reliable mid-range production.
Jaylen Warren ($6,200 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jaylen Warren has quietly carved out a consistent role in Pittsburgh’s offense, amassing 281 scrimmage yards over his last four games. His pass-catching ability complements Najee Harris, making him a sneaky flex play against a Browns defense that just got shredded by Taysom Hill. Warren’s four receptions last week were a season-high, and his versatility could be crucial in a potentially messy game. He remains a solid value pick with touchdown upside.
Pat Freiermuth ($3,600 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
Pat Freiermuth’s production has been inconsistent, but his red-zone presence always gives him a chance to deliver value. With the potential for a low-scoring game, Freiermuth’s ability to convert limited targets into touchdowns keeps him in the flex conversation. He hasn’t seen significant volume lately, but at this price, he’s worth a dart throw for lineups needing salary relief. Freiermuth is a risk-reward play who could reward managers with a crucial score.
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:
- Jerome Ford (RB, CLE) $4,400 Flex – Ford has seen his workload increase in recent weeks, and his dual-threat ability as a runner and pass-catcher gives him a shot at sneaky production. While Nick Chubb dominates the backfield, Ford’s involvement in passing downs could pay off in a game with a tough Steelers run defense. If the Browns fall behind and turn to the air, Ford could benefit from extra targets. He’s a high-risk, high-reward option for contrarian lineups.
- Mike Williams (WR, PIT) $3,200 Flex – Williams has yet to carve out a consistent role in Pittsburgh’s offense, but his big-play ability makes him an intriguing dart throw. After finding the end zone in his Steelers debut, he failed to record a target in Week 11 but remains a red-zone threat. As Williams continues to build chemistry with Russell Wilson, he could surprise with a splash play against a Browns secondary focused on George Pickens. He’s a boom-or-bust option for large-field tournaments.
- Van Jefferson (WR, PIT) $2,800 Flex – Jefferson has seen steady snaps in Pittsburgh’s offense but hasn’t translated those opportunities into fantasy production. As a player with a history of splash plays, he’s a deep dart throw against a Browns secondary that may focus elsewhere. If Jefferson can capitalize on even a single target, he could exceed value at his low salary. He’s not a reliable option but worth a shot in multi-entry contests.
- Calvin Austin (WR, PIT) $2,000 Flex – Austin’s recent performances have been inconsistent, but his speed and versatility keep him in play for GPP lineups. While he struggled in Week 11, he had a four-game stretch with at least 20 receiving yards prior, demonstrating his ability to deliver in limited opportunities. With defenses keying in on Pittsburgh’s primary receivers, Austin could take advantage of single coverage for a deep shot. At this price, he’s worth the gamble.
- Jordan Akins (TE, CLE) $1,600 Flex – Akins isn’t a high-volume target in the Browns’ offense, but his red-zone usage gives him a path to value. With four targets in each of the last two games and multiple red-zone looks, he’s a touchdown-dependent flyer who could pop in lineups. Cleveland’s tendency to pass heavily increases his chances of finding the end zone. If you’re punting at tight end, Akins is a viable option..
- Cordarrelle Patterson (RB, PIT) $1,000 Flex – Patterson’s role in the Steelers’ offense is minimal, but his versatility makes him an intriguing dart throw at a near-minimum price. With just one carry and one target last week, he’s clearly behind Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren on the depth chart. However, Patterson has shown in the past that he can deliver in limited opportunities, particularly if Pittsburgh schemes him into a gadget play. He’s a true flyer for managers looking to save salary.
DraftKings TNF Showdown 2024 – Pittsburgh @Cleveland Kickers and DSTs
Chris Boswell ($5,000) was the Steelers’ entire offense last week, converting all six of his field-goal attempts, including three from 50-plus yards. He’s been one of the most reliable kickers this season, making 29 of 30 field-goal tries for an impressive 96.7% success rate. If Pittsburgh struggles to finish drives again, Boswell could be a critical fantasy piece. With the Browns’ defense showing vulnerability in recent weeks, Boswell projects as a high-floor, high-ceiling option for this matchup. Dustin Hopkins ($4,800) had a forgettable performance last week, missing two short field goals when the game was still close. Despite the poor showing, Cleveland’s offense may lean on him again in what’s expected to be a low-scoring divisional matchup. If the Browns struggle to score touchdowns, Hopkins could have a bounce-back opportunity with multiple field-goal attempts. While his inconsistency is a concern, he’s a viable tournament option at a reduced price.
Steelers DST ($5,400) has been a fantasy gem, forcing three turnovers and logging two sacks in a narrow win over the Ravens last week. They’ve shown they can capitalize on mistakes, and with Jameis Winston’s tendency for turnovers, this unit is set up for another productive outing. Pittsburgh’s pass rush and opportunistic secondary make them a high-upside play against Cleveland’s shaky offense. They’re a premium option for managers looking for a safe defensive floor with turnover potential. Browns DST ($4,000) was gashed by the Saints in Week 11, allowing 35 points and 372 total yards. Despite the rough showing, they managed an interception, a fumble recovery, and a sack, showcasing their ability to make splash plays. Against a conservative Steelers offense led by Russell Wilson, the Browns could find opportunities for turnovers. They’re a riskier option but have enough upside to warrant consideration in tournaments.
So there you have it — our DraftKings picks for the 2024 showdown of Pittsburgh @Cleveland! 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!
