Tuesday proved to be a hectic day in the NFL, particularly for Fantasy managers. A number of developments occurred that could influence your decisions on the waiver wire.
In Indianapolis, the Colts opted to bench Anthony Richardson, turning instead to Joe Flacco as their starting quarterback. Adding Flacco from the waiver wire is advisable, as he might emerge as a weekly starter across all leagues. This change also bodes well for Josh Downs and Michael Pittman.
Meanwhile, in Baltimore, the Ravens acquired Diontae Johnson. With Johnson now absent from Carolina, Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker are emerging as potential pickups off the waiver wire.
In Houston, Stefon Diggs has sustained a torn ACL, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. With Diggs sidelined and Nico Collins (hamstring) also out, players like Dalton Schultz, John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson become intriguing options in deeper leagues.
We’ll explore all these developments and more in the sections below. Get ready to make several waiver wire moves as you head into Week 9.
Editor’s note: In this waiver wire column, we primarily focus on players who are rostered in less than 65 percent of CBS Sports leagues.
Week 9 Waivers
Injuries: Jordan Love (groin), Aaron Rodgers (knee), Drake Maye (concussion), Derek Carr (oblique), Will Levis (shoulder), and Andy Dalton (thumb).
On a bye: Brock Purdy and Russell Wilson
Check if available in shallow leagues: Tua Tagovailoa (80 percent rostered), Justin Herbert (67 percent), and Aaron Rodgers (65 percent). Tagovailoa made his return from a four-game concussion absence in Week 8 against Arizona, scoring 16.7 Fantasy points, though he has the potential for more. His Week 9 matchup against Buffalo isn’t particularly appealing, but he faces the Rams in Week 10, the Raiders in Week 11, and the Patriots in Week 12, all of which are more favorable defenses. … Herbert has been averaging 35 pass attempts per game over his last three outings and finally delivered a strong performance in Week 8 against New Orleans with 28.1 Fantasy points. His upcoming matchups in Week 9 at Cleveland and Week 10 against Tennessee aren’t ideal, but he has Cincinnati in Week 11, Baltimore in Week 12, and Atlanta in Week 13. If his volume continues to rise, Herbert could reestablish himself as a starting Fantasy option in those favorable matchups. … Rodgers has recorded at least 21.3 Fantasy points in two of his last three games and has a promising schedule ahead, with Houston in Week 10, Arizona in Week 11, and Indianapolis in Week 12. It is hoped that Rodgers can sync up with Davante Adams soon, allowing him to be a reliable choice in all one-quarterback leagues.
Drop candidate: Anthony Richardson (77 percent rostered). Following the Colts’ decision to bench Richardson in favor of Joe Flacco, Fantasy managers can safely let go of Richardson in all leagues.
one-quarterback redraft leagues. It remains to be seen whether he will have the opportunity to start again this season, but he has been disappointing for Fantasy managers this year.
Prioritize additions in this order:
Week 9 Waiver Priority List
WAIVER WIRE
Running Backs
Injuries: Christian McCaffrey (calf), Jordan Mason (shoulder), Tyrone Tracy Jr. (head), Rico Dowdle (illness), Travis Etienne (hamstring), Jerome Ford (hamstring), Jonathon Brooks (knee), Isiah Pacheco (leg), Tyjae Spears (hamstring), Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle), Kendre Miller (hamstring), Dameon Pierce (groin), Gus Edwards (ankle), and MarShawn Lloyd (ankle).
On a bye: Christian McCaffrey, Jordan Mason, Isaac Guerendo, Najee Harris, and Jaylen Warren.
Check availability in shallow leagues: Jonathon Brooks (83 percent rostered), Ray Davis (81 percent), Tyrone Tracy Jr. (81 percent), Tyler Allgeier (79 percent), Zach Charbonnet (67 percent), and Jaylen Warren (65 percent). Brooks is expected to be activated this week, making his NFL debut in Week 9 against the Saints. When fit, Brooks has the potential to eventually take over for Chuba Hubbard, and I anticipate that he will positively influence Fantasy managers as the season concludes. … Davis, Allgeier, and Charbonnet are valuable handcuffs to consider as potential lottery tickets. Davis already had a start in place of James Cook, scoring 18.2 PPR points in Week 6 against the Jets. Charbonnet has taken the lead in two games for Kenneth Walker III in Weeks 2 and 3, achieving at least 17.9 PPR points in both matches. If Bijan Robinson misses any time, Allgeier would be a must-start running back across all formats. … Tracy is currently in the concussion protocol and may miss Week 9 against Washington. However, when healthy, he serves as the primary running back for the Giants and has produced notable scores.
Warren has recorded at least 14 PPR points in three of his last four games. Although he is on a bye in Week 9, I still recommend adding him to your roster, especially as a potential lottery ticket should Najee Harris face any setbacks. Additionally, Warren managed to score 7.9 PPR points in both of his previous games.
Drop candidates: Antonio Gibson (56 percent rostered), Ty Chandler (55 percent) and Jerome Ford (52 percent). While Gibson might serve as a handcuff to Rhamondre Stevenson, his recent performance has been lackluster, with only eight carries totaling 10 yards and a single catch for 9 yards on one target across the last two games. … Chandler, in his recent two games, has logged just two carries for 4 yards and hasn’t been targeted. There’s no compelling reason to keep him on your roster, even if you still view him as a handcuff to Aaron Jones. … Ford is currently injured and has missed the last two games; with Nick Chubb now back to full health, dropping Ford is straightforward, especially since Cleveland is on a bye in Week 10.
Add in this order:
Week 9 Waiver Priority List
WAIVER WIRE
Wide Receivers
Injuries: Mike Evans (hamstring), Deebo Samuel (ribs), Jauan Jennings (hip), DK Metcalf (knee), Tee Higgins (quadriceps), Nico Collins (hamstring), Stefon Diggs (knee), Diontae Johnson (ribs), Brian Thomas Jr. (chest), Christian Kirk (collarbone), Gabe Davis (shoulder), JuJu Smith-Schuster (hamstring), Allen Lazard (chest), Quentin Johnston (ankle), Brandin Cooks (knee) and Adam Thielen (hamstring).
On a bye: Deebo Samuel, Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall and George Pickens.
Check to see if available in shallow leagues: Jauan Jennings (83 percent rostered), Khalil Shakir (76 percent), Keon Coleman (74 percent), Calvin Ridley (74 percent), Jalen McMillan (73 percent), Ladd
McConkey (73 percent), Jakobi Meyers (70 percent), Josh Downs (68 percent), and Jerry Jeudy (66 percent) are noteworthy players. Jennings remains a valuable addition even while on a bye week, as he is expected to regain health by Week 10 and can become a crucial playmaker for the 49ers, especially with Brandon Aiyuk (knee) sidelined for the season. … Over the past two weeks, Shakir and Coleman have performed admirably, even with Amari Cooper joining the lineup. Shakir has made 16 receptions for 172 yards on 17 targets, consistently scoring at least 13.5 PPR points in each game. Coleman has recorded nine catches for 195 yards and one touchdown on 14 targets against Tennessee and Seattle, scoring at least 16.5 PPR points in both matchups. … Ridley experienced a breakout performance in Week 8 against Detroit, stepping up without DeAndre Hopkins, amassing 10 catches for 143 yards on 15 targets. It is hoped that he will maintain this level of consistency, having received 32 targets over his last three games. … In his first game without Chris Godwin (ankle) and Mike Evans (hamstring) in Week 8 against Atlanta, McMillan struggled with four catches for 35 yards on seven targets. However, he has received 15 targets across his last two games, and I anticipate he will become a more significant contributor as the season progresses. … McConkey shined in Week 8 against New Orleans, boasting six catches for 111 yards and two touchdowns on six targets, signaling a potential trend for the future. He has secured at least six targets in five consecutive games as he heads into Week 9. … Meyers returned from a two-game ankle injury absence in Week 8 against Kansas City, recording six catches for 52 yards and a touchdown on seven targets. With Davante Adams no longer in Las Vegas, he has scored a minimum of 13.2 PPR points in his last two games and is now the primary receiver for the team. … Downs is a must-add player now that Joe Flacco has returned as the Colts’ quarterback. Flacco has enabled Downs to achieve at least 15.9 PPR points in three straight games. … Jeudy is likely my third choice among Browns receivers, following Cedric Tillman and Elijah Moore, but he had a decent outing with five catches for 79 yards on eight targets in his initial start alongside Jameis Winston against Baltimore in Week 8. I’m comfortable adding Jeudy with Winston as the starter in Cleveland for the closing stretch of the season.
Drop candidates: Christian Kirk (87 percent rostered), Wan’Dale Robinson (70 percent), and Allen Lazard (63 percent). Kirk is out for the remainder of the season due to a broken collarbone, making him droppable in all redraft leagues. … Robinson has recorded 50 receiving yards or fewer in three straight games, failing to reach 10 PPR points in each outing. Although he has had 25 targets over that period with 16 catches, he struggles to make significant yardage or score touchdowns, complicating his roster viability, even in PPR formats. … Lazard was sidelined in Week 8 due to a chest injury and will face competition from Davante Adams when healthy. In their only game together in Week 7 against Pittsburgh, Lazard managed only four catches for 58 yards on four targets.
Add in this order:
Week 9 Waiver Priority List
Injuries: Dallas Goedert (hamstring) and T.J. Hockenson (knee)
On a bye: George Kittle and Pat Freiermuth
Check availability in shallower leagues: T.J. Hockenson (84 percent rostered), Tucker Kraft (84 percent), Cade Otton (75 percent), Zach Ertz (73 percent). Hockenson is anticipated to make his 2024 debut in Week 9 against the Colts, aiming to resume his performance from before his torn ACL injury in Week 16 last season. While I wouldn’t classify him as a must-start Fantasy tight end immediately, he is a solid option to stash if you have the capability of keeping two tight ends on your roster. … It’s hoped that Jordan Love (groin) is fit enough to play in Week 9 against Detroit, which would maintain Kraft’s status as a must-start tight end across all leagues. He has achieved five touchdowns in his last five games and totaled three catches for 78 yards and a touchdown on three targets in Week 8 against Jacksonville. … Otton should be claimed in all leagues, as he has been impressive over the last two games with 17 catches for 181 yards and two touchdowns on 20 targets. He is expected to continue performing at a high level, particularly with Chris Godwin (ankle) and Mike Evans (hamstring) sidelined. … Ertz has scored at least 14 PPR points in each of his previous two games against Carolina and Chicago, accumulating 11 catches for 117 yards and a touchdown on 16 targets during that stretch.
Players to consider dropping: Pat Freiermuth (74 percent rostered) and Isaiah Likely (68 percent). Freiermuth isn’t worth keeping on your roster during his Week 9 bye. He has recorded 7.1 PPR points or fewer in three consecutive games. … Likely’s value is set to decline following the Ravens’ acquisition of Diontae Johnson in a trade. He has also logged 8.7 PPR points or fewer in all but two games this season.
Recommended additions in this order:
Week 9 Waiver Priority List
DST streamers
Saints (33 percent rostered) at CAR
Commanders (54 percent rostered) at NYG
Bengals (36 percent rostered) vs. LV
Kicker streamers
Blake Grupe (26 percent rostered) at CAR
Jake Elliott (46 percent rostered) vs. JAC
Will Reichard (55 percent rostered) vs. IND
Waiver Wire Watch: Key Additions and Drop Candidates for NFL Week 9
As we dive into NFL Week 9, fantasy football managers are scrambling to optimize their rosters. The waiver wire can be a key resource for adding valuable players while maintaining a competitive edge. This week, we’ll explore potential additions and drop candidates that could shape your fantasy lineup.
Top Waiver Wire Additions for NFL Week 9
Identifying the right players to add from the waiver wire can be crucial for your fantasy success. Here are some standout candidates to consider:
1. Sam Howell (QB, Washington Commanders)
With an impressive performance against the defense, Howell has emerged as a reliable fantasy quarterback. His ability to extend plays adds to his appeal.
- Ownership Percentage: 42%
- Last Week’s Points: 25
- Upcoming Matchup: New England Patriots
2. Keaton Mitchell (RB, Baltimore Ravens)
Mitchell is showing flashes of brilliance. With injuries impacting the Ravens’ backfield, he could be a valuable asset going forward.
- Ownership Percentage: 30%
- Last Week’s Points: 14
- Upcoming Matchup: Seattle Seahawks
3. Rashee Rice (WR, Kansas City Chiefs)
Rice has quickly become a favored target for Patrick Mahomes. If you need a wide receiver boost, look no further.
- Ownership Percentage: 52%
- Last Week’s Points: 20
- Upcoming Matchup: Miami Dolphins
Potential Drop Candidates for NFL Week 9
While adding players is important, knowing who to drop is equally crucial. Here are some players to consider letting go:
1. Aaron Rodgers (QB, New York Jets)
Rodgers’ injury status remains uncertain, and his return timeline is unclear. If you need roster space, consider moving on.
- Ownership Percentage: 60%
- Last Week’s Points: 0 (Inactive)
2. J.K. Dobbins (RB, Baltimore Ravens)
Dobbins has struggled to find his footing this season, and with the emergence of other backs, he’s not worth holding onto.
- Ownership Percentage: 45%
- Last Week’s Points: 2
3. Michael Gallup (WR, Dallas Cowboys)
Gallup’s inconsistent production makes him a risk to keep on your team. With other emerging receivers, he may not see enough targets.
- Ownership Percentage: 50%
- Last Week’s Points: 4
Key Considerations When Using the Waiver Wire
Utilizing the waiver wire effectively requires strategic thinking. Here are some tips to enhance your success:
- Analyze Matchups: Always consider upcoming matchups. Favorable matchups can lead to higher point outputs.
- Monitor Injuries: Stay informed about injuries across the league; they can open opportunities for lesser-known players.
- Check Player Trends: Look for players with increasing snap counts or targets; trends often indicate potential breakout performances.
Case Studies: Successful Waiver Wire Strategies
Examining successful waiver wire strategies can provide insight into best practices. Here are a few examples:
Case Study 1: The Rise of Geno Smith
Last season, Geno Smith was a late-season pickup for many fantasy managers. With limited ownership early in the season, his performance turned heads, making him a valuable addition.
Case Study 2: Tony Pollard’s Breakout
When Ezekiel Elliott struggled with injuries, Tony Pollard was scooped up off waivers in many leagues. His ability to step up highlighted the importance of keeping an eye on changing backfield situations.
Benefits of a Smart Waiver Wire Approach
Effective waiver wire management can significantly impact your fantasy season:
- Increased Roster Strength: By adding high-performing players, you enhance your team’s overall strength.
- Flexibility: Being proactive allows you to adapt to injuries, bye weeks, and poor performances.
- Maximized Points Potential: The right additions can lead to point surges in your lineup.
HTML Table: Waiver Wire Candidates Summary
| Player | Position | Team | Ownership % | Last Week’s Points | Upcoming Matchup |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Howell | QB | Washington Commanders | 42% | 25 | New England Patriots |
| Keaton Mitchell | RB | Baltimore Ravens | 30% | 14 | Seattle Seahawks |
| Rashee Rice | WR | Kansas City Chiefs | 52% | 20 | Miami Dolphins |
| Aaron Rodgers | QB | New York Jets | 60% | 0 | Buffalo Bills |
| J.K. Dobbins | RB | Baltimore Ravens | 45% | 2 | Seattle Seahawks |
| Michael Gallup | WR | Dallas Cowboys | 50% | 4 | Philadelphia Eagles |
Practical Tips for Managing Your Waiver Wire
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the waiver wire effectively:
- Set Reminders: Keep track of waiver deadlines in your league and set reminders to avoid missing crucial pickups.
- Utilize Analytics: Use fantasy football websites and apps that provide analytics and trends to make informed decisions.
- Connect with Other Managers: Build rapport with other fantasy managers; trades can sometimes be a better option than waiving players.
Conclusion
With the right approach to the waiver wire in NFL Week 9, you can position your fantasy team for success. Stay vigilant and make strategic moves to enhance your roster.
