NFL Fantasy Standouts Etienne, Pollard, Godwin Shine in Week 14

Buzz: Etienne, Pollard and Godwin among players who were getting the ball on Sunday

New York, December 09, 2025

Three NFL players emerged as notable figures in fantasy football following their significant performances on Sunday, Week 14 of the 2025 season. Travis Etienne Jr. of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tony Pollard of the Dallas Cowboys, and Chris Godwin of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers each posted impactful numbers in their respective matchups, influencing fantasy football dynamics going forward.

Key Performances Highlighted

Travis Etienne Jr. registered a season-high snap count against the Indianapolis Colts, amassing 74 rushing yards and scoring two touchdowns on the ground. He also added a reception and totaled 21.1 fantasy points, evidencing his enhanced role following the benching of a teammate due to fumbling issues. Etienne has thus positioned himself as a reliable running back for high-volume usage and fantasy consideration as a RB2 option.

Tony Pollard, after a period of limited workload, delivered a breakout performance for the Dallas Cowboys against the Cleveland Browns. Pollard rushed for a career-high 161 yards on 25 carries, scoring two long touchdowns. This significant surge in usage reestablishes him as a fantasy contender, though experts advise caution due to potential matchup difficulties moving forward.

Chris Godwin, despite playing through a fibula injury, led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in receiving yards for a second consecutive week. He received eight targets and totaled 10.5 fantasy points. Godwin has capitalized on an expanded receiving role amid absences of key teammates Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan. However, his volume may decline upon their return, which introduces moderate risk to his ongoing fantasy valuation.

Implications for Fantasy Football and Team Dynamics

These performances are consequential for fantasy managers looking to adjust rosters ahead of Week 15. Etienne’s increased snap count and scoring ability suggest a durable role expansion, while Pollard’s sudden workload demands monitoring for sustainability. Godwin’s consistent involvement despite injury highlights his current reliability but warrants caution due to shifting team personnel.

The shifting roles stem largely from team dynamics and injury statuses. Etienne’s ascension followed the benching of a teammate prone to turnovers, Pollard’s workload spike came unexpectedly, and Godwin’s target share increased due to key receiver absences.

Broader Context and Outlook

The growing usage of these players reflects evolving team strategies and injury-driven opportunities within the NFL. For fantasy participants and analysts, noting these developments offers insight into possible roster moves and adjustments as the regular season progresses. Monitoring health updates, matchup projections, and snap counts will be essential to assess their continued fantasy viability into Week 15 and beyond.