Top Overall PPR Starts for Week 13

In Week 13 of the 2025 fantasy football season, prioritize players with high- volume roles and favorable matchups in PPR formats, such as pass-catching running backs and wide receivers facing vulnerable defenses. Consensus rankings highlight quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson as elite options due to their dual-threat abilities against pass-heavy opponents. Running backs like Christian McCaffrey and De'Von Achane stand out for their receiving upside in games with projected high totals.

Quarterback Recommendations

Start Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills at PIT) as the top QB option, given his consistent rushing and passing production against a Steelers defense that struggles with mobile quarterbacks. Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens vs. CIN) follows closely, benefiting from a divisional rivalry where the Bengals' secondary has allowed big plays to signal-callers. Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles vs. CHI) rounds out the top tier, with his rushing volume and matchup against a Bears unit weak on the ground game.

Running Back Recommendations

Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers at CLE) is a must-start RB1, leveraging his all-around involvement in a game against a Browns defense prone to explosive runs and receptions. De'Von Achane (Miami Dolphins vs. NO) offers boom potential with his speed and receiving targets versus a Saints secondary that ranks poorly in PPR points allowed to backs. Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions vs. GB) provides a strong flex option, excelling in the passing game against a Packers defense vulnerable to checkdown routes.

Wide Receiver Recommendations

Ja'Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals at BAL) leads WR starts, thriving in a high- scoring affair where his deep-threat ability exploits the Ravens' occasional coverage lapses. Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks vs. MIN) is another top pick, with his slot role ideal against a Vikings defense that has surrendered receptions to underneath targets. Puka Nacua (Los Angeles Rams at CAR) completes the core group, poised for volume in a matchup against a Panthers unit weak in pass defense.

Tight End and Flex Notes

For tight ends, Jake Ferguson (Dallas Cowboys vs. KC) merits a start due to his red-zone role against a Chiefs defense allowing yards to pass-catchers. In flex spots, lean toward versatile RBs like Saquon Barkley (Philadelphia Eagles vs. CHI) over riskier WRs if your league emphasizes receptions. Always check injury reports, as statuses like questionable tags can shift these projections.