Welcome back to King Drafts! If your fantasy team is already off to a rocky start or you’re chasing that edge to stay unbeaten, the waiver wire is your best friend. Every week, the wire is brimming with under-the-radar players who can become game-changers for your squad. Whether it’s an injury to a starter, an unexpected breakout, or just a savvy pickup before the competition notices, dominating the waiver wire separates the contenders from the pretenders.
This week, we’re serving up the best waiver wire gems and giving you tips on how to maximize those precious waiver priorities (or FAAB budget).
Why the Waiver Wire is Crucial
The fantasy football draft is important, sure, but the championships are often won with solid in-season moves. The waiver wire is where breakout stars like James Robinson or Amon-Ra St. Brown are discovered.
Here’s why it’s so vital:
- Reward for Staying Active: Missing out on the draft-day stars? Picking the right waiver wire players can turn your season around.
- Plugging Injuries and Bye Week Gaps: When key players go down or are on a bye, you need fresh contributors to avoid weekly losses.
- Unearthing Breakouts: Some players don’t show their potential until the games start. The waiver wire lets you grab them before your rivals even realize their value.
Now, grab your crown and get ready for this week’s top waiver targets!
Players You Need to Add Now
Here’s a curated list of players who should be on your radar. Act fast before your league mates scoop them up!
1. Roschon Johnson (RB – Chicago Bears)
David Montgomery is out of town, and while Khalil Herbert is technically the starter, Roschon Johnson is earning snaps and could push for a bigger role if he continues performing. Early signs point to him being a valuable stash with high upside.
2. Puka Nacua (WR – Los Angeles Rams)
With Cooper Kupp sidelined, Nacua stepped into a significant role in Sean McVay’s offense. His target share is through the roof, and he’s proving to be more than just a placeholder. Don’t hesitate; this kind of volume doesn’t last long on waivers.
3. Tutu Atwell (WR – Los Angeles Rams)
Speaking of the Rams, Atwell’s deep-play ability is shining without Kupp in the lineup. He offers splashy, big-game potential and is worth stashing if you’re WR-needy.
4. Joshua Kelley (RB – Los Angeles Chargers)
Every time Austin Ekeler has missed time in the past, Kelley steps in as the featured back and delivers. He’s a must-add handcuff and could provide RB2 value if Ekeler sits out with injury or workload management.
5. Nico Collins (WR – Houston Texans)
Collins has quietly become C.J. Stroud’s top target in Houston. His blend of size, speed, and opportunity on a rebuilding offense makes him a consistent WR3/flex play with potential for more.
6. Jake Ferguson (TE – Dallas Cowboys)
The Cowboys have long utilized their tight ends in the red zone, and Ferguson has stepped into the vacated Dalton Schultz role. If you’re streaming tight ends, give him a shot in what looks like a high-scoring offense.
7. Zach Moss (RB – Indianapolis Colts)
If you’re in desperate need of running back help, Moss is a sneaky pickup as Jonathan Taylor remains out of the rotation and Deon Jackson has struggled. Moss could see surprising volume in the short term.
8. Kendrick Bourne (WR – New England Patriots)
The Patriots’ receiving corps has been tough to nail down in recent seasons, but Bourne emerged as a top target in Week 1. Mac Jones seems to trust him, especially in key situations.
9. Jordan Love (QB – Green Bay Packers)
If you’re struggling at quarterback or streaming week to week, Love is offering steady production. With a young cast of weapons around him and dual-threat upside, he’s a name to monitor closely.
10. Tyjae Spears (RB – Tennessee Titans)
Behind Derrick Henry looms Tyjae Spears, who is sneaking his way into touches and being lined up creatively. His pass-catching ability could carve out standalone value, and he’s an instant RB1 if Henry misses time.
Tips for Managing Waiver Priorities
Making the right waiver moves isn’t just about who you add but how you add them. Follow these tips to stay on top of your game:
- Be Aggressive Early: Early-season waiver moves often deliver the best value over time. Don’t hesitate to use your claim or spend FAAB if you spot a real difference-maker.
- Watch for Injury News: Injuries create immediate opportunities. Keep an eye on reports late Sunday and early Monday to get ahead of the waiver rush.
- Stream Smart: Don’t waste FAAB or priority on one-week plays unless you’re desperate. Plan ahead for multi-week value.
- Know Your Opponents’ Needs: If your rival has three injured wide receivers, you can bet they’re targeting the same WR waiver pickups you want. Consider strategically blocking them if it’s a key matchup week.
- Stash Potential Role-Changers: Even if a player isn’t producing yet, if they have a chance at a bigger role in the future, stash them on your bench or IR slot to reap the rewards later.
Final Thoughts
The waiver wire is where champions are made, and here at King Drafts, we’re here to help you rule your league. By staying active and following these tips, you’ll turn your roster into a powerhouse week by week.
Have you spotted someone on waivers we missed? Jump into the comments and share your thoughts, or visit King Drafts regularly for updated weekly picks and guidance. The fantasy crown is calling, and this is your chance to claim it. Good luck out there!
