waiver wire pickup
Dec 1, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) scrambles during the first quarter against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Quarterbacks
Jameis Winston, Cleveland Browns (Rostered: 15%)
If the frustration continues, Winston is back for another go, still the quintessential boom-or-bust quarterback. Since the bye week, he’s recorded two tremendous – over 26 fantasy points – and two poor – below 15. He shouldn’t be overlooked, even though he is risky. Winston plays high-scoring teams like the Chiefs, Bengals, and Dolphins to close the fantasy season. That means these are the matchups that will very likely force him into pass-heavy situations and an abundance of opportunities. Consider him in all formats.
Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets (Rostered: 34%)
Aaron Rodgers had his best game of the year, throwing for 339 yards, a touchdown, and no interceptions against Miami. Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams both saw double-digit targets and were a big part of his fantasy play. Now, Rodgers has the Jaguars in Week 15, a team that has struggled to defend quarterbacks. If you need a one-week starter, he’s a strong QB2 option with some upside. But his matchups aren’t as good in Weeks 16 (Rams) and 17 (Bills), where he’s better off kept on the bench.
Mentionables: Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (Rostered: 6%)
Wide Receivers
Adam Thielen, Carolina Panthers (Rostered: 39%)
Since his return from a hamstring injury, Adam Thielen has looked fantastic and harnessed excellent chemistry with rookie QB Bryce Young. Thielen has been seeing double-digit targets over his last two games and has scored 19+ fantasy points over his last two.Thielen has become Young’s top target with Jalen Coker sidelined. If Coker comes back, it’s hard to envision the Panthers leaving what’s been working. Thielen’s production has never wavered and he’s a must-play for most leagues.
Sep 24, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) runs for yards after the catch against Seattle Seahawks linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (10) during the first quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) runs for yards after the catch against Seattle Seahawks linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (10) during the first quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Jalen McMillan, Tampa Bay Buccaneers ( Rostered: 9%)
Finally!!! Against the Raiders, Jalen McMillan broke through with 21.9 fantasy points and two touchdowns. We‘ve been expecting this from him since Chris Godwin went down for the season. Tampa Bay’s rookie has flashed, but only has seen seven or more targets in three games this season. McMillan is worth a pickup in deeper leagues with a favorable schedule ahead. However, it all depends on whether he can get more consistent chances playing behind Mike Evans in the Bucs’ offense.
Mentionables: Elijah Moore, Cleveland Browns (Rostered: 22%)
Running Backs
Tank Bigsby, Jacksonville Jaguars (Rostered: 36%)
Tank Bigsby nearly matched Travis Etienne Jr. in snap count during Week 14 but outpaced him in touches (19). With an upcoming schedule featuring the Jets, Raiders, and Titans, Bigsby could continue to see significant usage, especially in close games. When given double-digit touches, he’s been productive, averaging 16.1 fantasy points. Bigsby is a solid option in leagues of all sizes.
Tank BigsbyPatrick Taylor, San Francisco 49ers (Rostered: 6%)
Patrick Taylor could be the next man up in San Francisco after Isaac Guerendo suffered a foot sprain late in Week 14. Though the team hasn’t ruled Guerendo out, the short turnaround for Thursday’s game against the Rams could open the door for Taylor. He carried seven times for 25 yards last week, and while not a guaranteed starter, Taylor could provide value in neutral matchups if Guerendo is sidelined.
Mentionables: Sincere McCormick, Las Vegas Raiders ( Rostered: 16%)
Tight Ends
Stone Smartt, Los Angeles Chargers (Rostered: 0%)
Stone Smartt made the most of his opportunities last week, recording 54 yards on three catches. With Will Dissly (shoulder) likely sidelined, Smartt is in line for an increased role. The Chargers are thin at pass-catching options, making Smartt a deep-league pickup with potential upside.
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Oct 20, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz (86) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Zach Ertz, Washington Commanders (Rostered: 44%)
Zach Ertz continues to deliver as Washington’s No. 2 option, with a touchdown in three consecutive games. He ranks second on the team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards, making him a reliable fantasy option. With a Week 15 matchup against the Saints, Ertz is a strong start in most formats.
Mentionables: Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints (Rostered: 10%)
Washington Commanders (Rostered: 23%)
The Commanders’ defense is coming off a bye and faces a Saints team struggling with quarterback injuries. With Derek Carr sidelined, Washington will likely face an overwhelmed Jake Haener, making them a top waiver target for Week 15. This defense should be started wherever available.
Cincinnati Bengals (Rostered: 17%)
The Bengals defense showed promise against the Cowboys and has a favorable matchup against the Titans this week. Tennessee’s offense has been vulnerable all season, positioning the Bengals as a viable streaming option for fantasy managers in need.
Mentionables: DEF Atlanta Falcons (Rostered: 11%)
new york giants daniel jones
Nov 3, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Washington Commanders defensive end Dorance Armstrong (92) is called for a personal foul while trying to sack New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) in the 2nd half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
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