### Fantasy Football Week 7: Uncovering the Biggest Sleepers at Every Position

In fantasy football, targeting key matchups with vulnerable defenses can yield high-upside sleepers, and such opportunities abound in Week 7. While it's not advisable to rely solely on a few games, ignoring bad defenses and key injuries can often lead to discovering standout performances from backups and underperforming starters.

Fantasy managers should keep an eye on a quarterback-receiver sleeper pairing in London and unheralded playmakers in Monday Night Football's doubleheader. This week, three rookies are among the highlighted sleepers, introducing fresh prospects to the fantasy lineup. All selected players are available in over 50 percent of leagues according to FantasyPros' consensus.

New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye, fresh off a starting debut with 243 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions against the fourth-ranked Houston Texans' pass defense, could be a savvy pick. Maye faces a more forgiving Jacksonville Jaguars defense in London, and despite an unsettled offensive line, he has the potential to amass over 300 yards combined in passing and rushing, potentially ranking in the top 10 among quarterbacks for two consecutive weeks.

With Gus Edwards sidelined, the Los Angeles Chargers' J.K. Dobbins becomes the primary running back and had an impressive 96-yard, one-touchdown performance last week. Yet, rookie Kimani Vidal has shown promise in his backup role, and facing the Arizona Cardinals' struggling run defense, both could offer significant fantasy value. Vidal's involvement in the passing game, highlighted by a 38-yard touchdown reception, adds to his potential as a flex option.

Managers should also be mindful of the Indianapolis Colts' running back situation, especially if Jonathan Taylor remains out. Tyler Goodson and Trey Sermon have shared duties, with Goodson producing more efficiently in Week 6. The Colts face a Miami Dolphins defense that has been generous to opposing running backs, potentially paving the way for Goodson to be a useful asset.

The Arizona Cardinals might be without wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., currently in concussion protocol. His likely absence opens the door for Emari Demercado, a pass-catching running back who showed an increase in targets last week. Demercado's potential volume makes him a sleeper candidate, especially if quarterback Kyler Murray continues to favor short-to-intermediate passes.

Carolina Panthers rookie Xavier Legette has stepped up in wideout Adam Thielen's absence, playing significant snaps and finding the end zone in two of the last three games. Legette will face the Washington Commanders' vulnerable pass defense, offering him an excellent opportunity to replicate his productive Week 4 performance.

Lastly, New England Patriots wideout DeMario Douglas has developed a strong connection with quarterback Drake Maye. Douglas led the team in targets last year and showed promise in Maye's debut start. Facing the Jacksonville Jaguars' leaky pass defense, Douglas stands as a sleeper and potential season-long keeper. Additionally, Noah Brown of the Washington Commanders has emerged as a reliable target, especially against Carolina Panthers' weak pass defense. Despite dealing with a groin injury, Brown's consistent involvement makes him a worthy pick.

Cade Otton of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may be a roller-coaster fantasy asset, but his upcoming matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, who struggle against tight ends, positions him for a potentially strong performance. Despite recent inefficiencies, his secure role in Tampa Bay's aerial attack could lead to significant fantasy points in a high-scoring affair.