When the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5 on Sunday night, wide receiver George Pickens will be looking to build off his best showing of the 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, running back Najee Harris will be looking for a bounce-back performance.
Pickens broke the century mark for the first time this season last week, posting a team-high seven catches for 113 yards. There were a few blemishes, though, as Pickens still hasn't scored and he lost a fumble at the five-yard line.
Harris, who still hasn't scored, was completely shut down on the ground with 19 yards on 13 carries, and the only saving grace was his three catches for 54 yards. It was his first double-digit fantasy showing of 2024, so there's that.
Should you deploy either Harris or Pickens in your fantasy football lineup in a Week 5? Let's take a look.
Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 5: George Pickens
Pickens is a middle-of-the-road start this week. The Cowboys are giving up the 14th-fewest fantasy points per game to wide receivers, and he's going to draw some coverage from Trevon Diggs.
That said, the Cowboys' defense could be without its two best pass-rushers, as DeMarcus Lawrence is on injured reserve and Micah Parsons isn't expected to play, so that will help keep the pocket clean for Justin Fields.
Pickens isn't a lineup lock by any stretch at this point, so if you have someone who has been more consistent this season for your flex spot, you can start them over him. But with the bye weeks here, you could do a lot worse.
Verdict: Start 'Em
Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 5: Najee Harris
Harris has been a major disappointment through four games, ranking as RB30 overall.
But there is hope yet for the Steelers running back, as he draws a matchup against a Cowboys defense that is ceding the sixth-most rushing yards per game and is tied for the third-most fantasy points per contest given up to running backs.
Also, as we previously mentioned, Dallas is going to be without Lawrence, and quite possibly Parsons, also, which will only hurt its run defense even more.
As is the case with Pickens, it's understandable if you leave Harris on your bench in favor of a player who has been more productive. But with the bye weeks upon us, and with a favorable matchup, starting Harris isn't the worst thing you can do this week.
Verdict: Start 'Em
