Welcome to our Week 9 fantasy football waiver wire pickups article for the 2024 season. Among all teams, the Cleveland Browns stand out as a potential source of league-winning players for fantasy managers. Jameis Winston has notably improved the prospects of all Cleveland pass-catchers, particularly Cedric Tillman, who is emerging as a possible league-winner.
The return of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua elevates Matthew Stafford’s value as a top addition. Furthermore, the injuries sustained by Chris Godwin and Mike Evans have significantly boosted Cade Otton’s fantasy appeal. This week features numerous high-caliber players that fantasy managers should aim to acquire.
Our fantasy rosters should always be dynamic; there is usually an opportunity for improvement. This article will assist you in identifying potential upgrades for your lineup. For those interested in accessing our premium tools, remember to use promo code “BOOM” for a 10% discount.
Don’t forget to view all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:
High-End QB2 Options with Weekly Top-10 Potential
Jared Goff, Detroit Lions – 53.4% Rostered
Since the initial two weeks of the season, Goff has been outstanding. In that period, he has only thrown 18 incompletions while compiling 12 touchdown passes. The Detroit offense has been firing on all cylinders recently, with Goff playing a pivotal role. Over his last five games, he has averaged 20.2 PPG, despite not participating in the fourth quarter of the previous game and one against Dallas.
Jared Goff has the highest Comp Pct (83.0%) and Pass Rating (146.5) in a 5-game span in NFL HISTORY pic.twitter.com/KDUNAGGbKt
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) October 27, 2024
He has passed for two or more touchdowns in five consecutive games. The Lions will take on the Packers next week, and although the Packers’ defense has been tough on opposing quarterbacks,
As long as Jordan Love remains healthy, this matchup could turn into an exciting shootout. In Week 10, the Lions will face the Texans, which is also shaping up to be a potential high-scoring game.
Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams - 18.5% Rostered
This past weekend marked the first time this season that Stafford had both Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp available for more than 50% of the snaps. He achieved 279 passing yards and threw four touchdowns, resulting in 24.8 fantasy points against the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings have consistently been one of the top defenses this season.
Is Matthew Stafford back to being a top 12 fantasy quarterback. 🤔
NBC Sports | @Applebees
🎥 Prime, FOX pic.twitter.com/24b6Ai2zNL
— Rotoworld Football (@rotoworld_fb) October 25, 2024
Though the Rams’ defense isn’t particularly strong, it provides a solid foundation for Stafford’s fantasy football success. With Kupp, Nacua, and running back Kyren Williams, Stafford enjoys a formidable group of playmakers to help drive the offense. He possesses a sneaky top-12 potential for the remainder of the season.
Sam Darnold, Minnesota Vikings – 46.5% Rostered
Darnold is enjoying a career-resurgent season under head coach Kevin O’Connell. He’s performed exceptionally well, and with star tight end T.J. Hockenson expected to return this week, he’ll have another elite pass-catching weapon at his disposal. So far this year, Darnold has thrown for two or more touchdowns in five of his seven games.
He has scored 18 or more fantasy points in four out of his seven starts. Darnold faces a favorable matchup in Week 9 against the Colts, who have given up the 12th-most points to quarterbacks in the first seven weeks.
Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins - 47.2% Rostered
Tagovailoa made his return this past weekend; although he didn’t have a standout performance, the potential for top-12 fantasy numbers was apparent. He finished with 14.6 points, passing for 234 yards and one touchdown. In his two complete starts this season, Tagovailoa has attempted 37 and 38 passes. This level of volume, combined with the elite talents of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, ensures Tua remains a high-end QB2 on most weeks.
Despite the small sample size, Tagovailoa is averaging 286 passing yards across his two full games. There’s no reason to doubt the continued volume, and when it persists, the touchdowns will inevitably follow. He has thrown just one touchdown in each of his complete games so far, which should increase as the season progresses.
Geno Smith, Seattle Seahawks - 58.0% Rostered
The Seahawks have been accumulating plenty of pass attempts. The volume is promising, and their neutral pass rate and pace of play are advantageous. Eventually, his touchdown rate is expected to normalize, leading to a significant boost in his scoring. The return of D.K. Metcalf will also provide additional support.
Strong Bench and Streamer Options
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars – 33.8% Rostered
Lawrence continues to perform well, consistently stacking quality performances. Over his past four games, he has averaged 19.2 points per game. He scored 21.2 and 23.2 points in two of those games. After throwing only two touchdowns in the first three weeks, he has thrown two touchdowns in four of his last five starts.
His upcoming three games against top-tier teams, Philadelphia, Minnesota, and Detroit, present an opportunity for significant challenges.
shootout appeal. Although Jacksonville may not secure victories in any of those three matchups, it’s quite likely that the Jaguars will be in a position to score heavily in all of them.
Drake Maye, New England Patriots – 13.7% Rostered
Fantasy owners should monitor his injury status as the week progresses. Maye was sidelined during the previous game due to a concussion, raising doubts about his availability for Week 9. Nonetheless, if he can navigate the concussion protocol successfully, he should be a top priority for addition. Even if he doesn’t clear the protocol, he still merits consideration.
In his first two games as a starter, Maye recorded 19.5 and 20.8 points. This past weekend, even after exiting the game early, he managed to accumulate 11.5 points. After three starts, he’s projected to achieve 578 rushing yards over the course of 17 games, a figure that could have been even higher had he not missed most of last Sunday’s game. Maye appears to be a promising talent, capable of scoring substantial points with his rushing ability.
Other Players to Consider: Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears – 59.8% Rostered, Jameis Winston, Cleveland Browns – 3.3% Rostered, Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets – 57.1% Rostered, Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers - 40.0% Rostered, Bo Nix, Denver Broncos – 35.7% Rostered, Russell Wilson, Pittsburgh Steelers – 27.0% Rostered, Malik Willis, Green Bay Packers – 0.5% Rostered
RB3s with RB2 Upside
Alexander Mattison, Las Vegas Raiders – 54.0% Rostered
Although Mattison’s roster percentage slightly exceeds our ideal range, he deserves recognition here, as his roster rate should be higher than 54% across leagues. While his performance may not always be spectacular, the remarkable volume of touches he receives justifies a roster spot.
Alexander Mattison is a… Bell Cow?!
Averaging over 20 touches per game in October
Zamir White even returned last week, but Mattison out-touched him 26-4 (!!)
Mattison has cracked my top-30 rest of season RB rankings
Full rest of season fantasy rankings ⤵️
— Josh Larky (@jlarkytweets) October 23, 2024
Although that tweet is from last week, the trend continued into this past weekend. Mattison carried the ball 14 times and caught five passes, while the nearest running back for the Raiders had just two touches. He is undoubtedly the primary running back for the Raiders.
While Mattison’s talent may be limited and the Raiders’ offense is struggling, resulting in potential down weeks, fantasy managers would be hard-pressed to find a running back who consistently sees 18 or more touches per game.
RB4s with High Contingency Value
Tyrone Tracy Jr., New York Giants – 46.2% Rostered
During Weeks 5-6, Tracy had the opportunity to step in as a starter for the Giants while Devin Singletary dealt with a groin injury. During this span, he accumulated 237 scrimmage yards on 42 touches, which included seven receptions. Although Singletary returned in Week 7, Tracy still saw 67% of the snaps and out-touched Singletary.
The Giants will be in action tonight, so it will be interesting to observe how this backfield operates with Singletary now two weeks post-injury. The backfield remains a committee, with both Singletary and Tracy getting touches. This scenario confers RB4 value on both players, along with the potential for RB2/3 upside.
Fantasy owners must keep an eye on who receives goal-line touches and who serves as the team’s main pass-catcher. This insight will help clarify which player holds the greater value in this partnership.
Tyjae Spears, Tennessee Titans – 49.9% Rostered
Rostered
Spears did not participate this past weekend due to a hamstring injury. Nevertheless, if he becomes available, he is worth considering for your roster. The general perception around Spears might be more negative compared to other players, influenced by the expectation that the Titans’ backfield would operate with a 50/50 split, with Spears potentially overtaking Tony Pollard. However, that scenario has yet to come to fruition.
That’s perfectly fine; we simply need to adjust our expectations. Over the first four weeks of the season, before exiting the Week 6 game early due to his hamstring issue, he averaged seven carries and three receptions per game. Any running back receiving ten touches in a game becomes a viable starter.
In those initial four games, Spears tallied 8.1 and 10.9 half-PPR points in two contests. He has the capacity to provide RB4 value with a chance to hit RB3 upside as a starter. Additionally, he has RB2 value if Pollard were to miss time.
Pure Handcuffs
Ray Davis, Buffalo Bills – 16.8% Rostered
James Cook has had an impressive season, but Davis has proven that he can be an effective running back in Buffalo’s offense. When Cook missed a game this year, Davis stepped up, accumulating 97 rushing yards, three receptions, and 55 receiving yards for a total of 16.7 half-PPR points.
Following that performance, Davis cemented his position as Buffalo’s backup running back behind Cook. If Cook were to be sidelined, Davis would likely find himself among the top 20 running backs.
Braelon Allen, New York Jets - 24.8% Rostered
After his Week 8 showing, Allen could arguably belong in the previous category of RB4s with significant contingency value. However, in Weeks 6 and 7, Breece Hall dominated the backfield in terms of snaps and touches, marking the initial games under the new play-caller, Todd Downing.
Last weekend’s touch share contrasted sharply with the previous weeks, creating uncertainty regarding Allen’s role moving forward.
Breece Hall over the last two weeks with new OC Todd Downing:
– 84% snaps (ranks RB2)
– 83% of team carries (RB1)
– 67% route share (RB1)in Weeks 1-5…
– 74% snaps (RB7)
– 58% carry share (RB16)
– 52% route share (RB8)— Graham Barfield (@GrahamBarfield) October 22, 2024
In the latest game, Allen recorded 12 carries to Hall’s 16. He also received one opportunity inside the five-yard line, which he successfully converted into a touchdown. Despite finishing with just 32 yards on his touches, if he maintains ten touches per game and sees some goal-line opportunities, he can be considered in a pinch as a flex option.
Fantasy managers should regard him primarily as a handcuff until we gain a clearer understanding of how the team will utilize these two running backs under the new offensive coordinator.
Trey Benson, Arizona Cardinals – 16.6% Rostered
Benson currently holds no standalone value and has had limited opportunities this season, but he is likely the primary beneficiary should James Conner sustain an injury. In that scenario, Benson could be regarded as a top-25 running back.
Ty Chandler, Minnesota Vikings – 28.7% Rostered
Chandler’s role has diminished this season, having played only two snaps during Thursday night’s loss to the Rams. Additionally, Minnesota’s recent trade for Cam Akers raises questions about Chandler’s status as the No. 2 running back behind Aaron Jones.
Despite this, fantasy managers should presently consider Chandler to be Minnesota’s preferred backup running back, particularly since Jones has been dealing with hip and hamstring issues.
Injuries have been a theme this season, and following his struggles with hamstring issues last year, he may be a worthwhile stash.
Blake Corum, Los Angeles Rams – 16.9% Rostered
Recently, Corum has seen an increase in his involvement with the offense. While this alone doesn’t carry much weight since he was absent for the initial weeks of the season, it does enhance his handcuff potential, which is currently his only value.
Although he lacks standalone value, he has established himself as the clear No. 2 running back behind Kyren Williams. If Williams were to miss any time, Corum’s potential could be significant.
Roschon Johnson, Chicago Bears - 12.0% Rostered
As the No. 2 running back in Chicago, Johnson stands behind D’Andre Swift. He also serves as the team’s goal-line option, which adds some intrigue in favorable matchups for the Bears. With rumors circulating about Khalil Herbert being on the trade block, Johnson’s position as the second running back appears secure. Should Swift sustain an injury and Herbert be traded, Johnson could become a workhorse option.
Sean Tucker, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 7.6% Rostered
Fantasy managers should refrain from overanalyzing Week 8. Throughout the game, Tampa Bay was in catch-up mode, a scenario that does not favor Tucker’s playing style. The team seems to favor Bucky Irving and Rachaad White for passing situations. At this point, Tucker is merely a handcuff, needing one of them to be sidelined for him to gain relevance in fantasy circles. If either of them misses time, Tucker could slot in as a flex starter.
Kimani Vidal, Los Angeles Chargers – 6.5% Rostered
Vidal has emerged as the Chargers’ No. 2 running back, backing up J.K. Dobbins. With Gus Edwards on IR and struggling with efficiency this season, there’s no guarantee that he will reclaim his backup role once cleared. Given Dobbins’ injury history, Vidal is a handcuff worth considering for your roster.
Jaylen Wright, Miami Dolphins – 7.0% Rostered
Currently, Wright serves as a handcuff to either De’Von Achane or Raheem Mostert, but he has the potential to become fantasy-relevant should one of them go down with an injury. This gives him two opportunities compared to other handcuff running backs who only have one.
Mostert managed just 19 yards on nine carries this past week, whereas Wright gained 18 yards on two attempts. Wright’s superior efficiency could see him move ahead of Mostert on the depth chart, especially if Miami’s playoff chances continue to diminish.
Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans – 3.0% Rostered
Following the trade of Cam Akers to the Vikings, Pierce’s role as Joe Mixon’s backup has been solidified. This positions him as one of the top handcuffs in fantasy football, especially since Mixon has been performing well this season. If Mixon were to miss time, Pierce would step into one of the most favorable backfield roles in the NFL.
Antonio Gibson, New England Patriots – 33.9% Rostered
Gibson currently serves as the No. 2 running back for New England, backing up Rhamondre Stevenson. Earlier this season, when Stevenson was out, Gibson took charge as the team’s primary back, handling the majority of backfield touches. Should Stevenson miss additional games, Gibson would once again have flex potential.
Upside Stashes
MarShawn Lloyd, Green Bay Packers – 7.7% Rostered
Lloyd is set to return from IR this week. With Jordan Love dealing with a groin injury that has raised concerns for head coach Matt LaFleur, the team may adopt a run-heavy strategy. If Lloyd returns to action, he could immediately see 7-12 touches.
While it might be ambitious to expect him to overtake Emanuel Wilson right away, there’s a possibility. Given his draft status, it’s reasonable to think the Packers envisioned him as their No. 2 running back. If that materializes, Lloyd could provide RB4 value with significant upside.
Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints - 7.7% Rostered
Miller appears to be the second-string running back for the Saints. Alvin Kamara has revealed that he has been playing with a fractured hand. Should Kamara suffer an injury, Miller would likely stand to gain the most. If the Saints’ season continues to decline, the coaching staff might opt to integrate Miller more extensively into their game strategy.
Possible Trade Candidates
Khalil Herbert, Chicago Bears – 4.2% Rostered
There are speculations that Herbert could be traded. Currently, he holds the position of the Bears’ third-string running back. If a trade were to occur, the Dallas Cowboys may emerge as a potential destination. Although it seems unlikely, one could envision him stepping up as their primary running back over Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott.
Miles Sanders, Carolina Panthers – 8.2% Rostered
Sanders is another name mentioned in trade discussions. With Jonathon Brooks set to return and Chuba Hubbard performing well, Sanders might become expendable. If he were to be traded to Dallas, he could also provide flex value. Like Herbert, this scenario seems far-fetched.
Potential League-Winner
Cedric Tillman, Cleveland Browns - 15.4% Rostered
Is it an overstatement to suggest that Tillman could be a league winner? Perhaps, but I prefer to take a chance rather than miss out. Last week, he recorded 12 targets, eight receptions, 81 yards, and 14.1 half-PPR points. Following that, he garnered nine targets, seven receptions, 99 yards, and two touchdowns this past weekend, accumulating 25.4 half-PPR points.
I WILL SAY AGAIN… NFL REDZONE WAS MADE FOR DAYS LIKE TODAY🚨
Jameis Winston finds Cedric Tillman to take the lead‼️
— PlayerProfiler (@rotounderworld) October 27, 2024
In the last two weeks, he has seen target shares of 23.0% and 21.9%. It appears that he has established himself as Cleveland’s top receiver. While David Njoku will remain integral to their passing game, Jerry Jeudy should be regarded as a secondary option. Tillman possesses significant upside, making it crucial for fantasy managers to pursue him aggressively.
Must Add WR3s
Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland Browns - 49.8% Rostered
With Amari Cooper now with the Buffalo Bills and Jameis Winston taking the helm, fantasy managers should prioritize Jeudy if he’s available. Winston attempted 41 passes, accumulating 334 yards and three touchdowns. While it was against one of the NFL’s most ineffective secondaries, Winston’s performance boosts the prospects for all Cleveland pass-catchers.
Browns pass catchers with Jameis Winston today:
Elijah Moore: 29% targets, 23% air yards, 16.5 points 📈
Cedric Tillman: 22%, 39%, 28.9 📈
Jerry Jeudy: 20%, 24%, 12.9 📈
David Njoku: 17%, 15%, 17.1 📈Upgrades everywhere. pic.twitter.com/0Itwf8eL52
— Dwain McFarland (@dwainmcfarland) October 27, 2024
Over the last two weeks, Jeudy has ranked third in targets. Given Winston’s unpredictability and the inconsistencies within Cleveland’s offense, Jeudy may not deliver reliable fantasy points consistently; however, his potential as a WR3 is now evident. In his recent performance with Winston leading, he accumulated eight targets, five catches, and 79 yards, earning 10.4 half-PPR points. He should be considered a priority addition.
Jalen McMillan, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 40.5% Rostered
Although the final score didn’t meet the expectations of fantasy managers, McMillan’s involvement in Tampa Bay’s first game without Mike Evans and Chris Godwin is cause for optimism. He tied for second in team targets.
Buccaneers passing attack without Chris Godwin and Mike Evans in Week 8:
Cade Otton: 29.1 points, 88% routes, 22% targets
Jalen McMillan: 9.2, 92%, 15%
Sterling Shepard: 4.8, 74%, 11%
Trey Palmer: 4.9, 78%, 5%Percent slot: Shepard 60%, McMillan 33%
McMillan still alive.
— Dwain McFarland (@dwainmcfarland) October 27, 2024
While his slot percentage could have been improved, McMillan achieved the highest route percentage among his peers and led in targets. He converted seven targets into four receptions for 35 yards and added a rushing attempt for 17 yards, indicating the team’s intent to get him involved. His WR3 potential remains, but he may perform better once Evans returns, allowing McMillan to move into the slot more frequently than he did in the last game. Fantasy managers should consider adding him and maintaining patience.
WR4s and WR5s Who are Solid Bye-Week and Injury Replacements
Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco 49ers – 20.7% Rostered
With Brandon Aiyuk on IR and Jauan Jennings sidelined due to a hip injury, plus Deebo Samuel exiting Sunday night with a rib injury, the 49ers’ receiving corps is severely depleted. Pearsall was a first-round pick in this year’s draft.
As injuries continue to mount at the receiver position, Pearsall’s role is likely to expand soon. He demonstrated significant promise in his last outing, recording four catches for 38 yards, along with a rush attempt of 39 yards, culminating in 9.7 half-PPR points. Should Samuel’s rib injury keep him out or Jennings fail to return next week, Pearsall could emerge as a top-36 receiver.
Demario Douglas, New England Patriots – 35.1% Rostered
Douglas has been underwhelming in the last two weeks. After posting 18 targets, 12 receptions, 151 yards, and a touchdown in the initial two starts of Drake Maye, his production has declined recently.
It’s worth noting he was unwell in Week 7, resulting in a participation rate of just 33%, a drop from the 62% he achieved in Weeks 5-6. Last weekend, Maye exited the game due to a concussion.
Demario Douglas has an absurd 40.5% target share when sharing the field with Drake Maye.
We already saw the Pats take on the Jets once this season. “Pop” Douglas in that game:
+ 38% target share+ 58% receiving yardage share
— Jacob Gibbs (@jagibbs_23) October 23, 2024
As long as Maye is at the helm and Douglas remains healthy, Douglas holds a position as WR4 and has potential to rise to WR3 in PPR scoring formats. It’s best to disregard the noise from the past two weeks; they don’t reflect his true worth. He remains a valuable addition.
Xavier Legette, Carolina Panthers – 24.1% Rostered
Fantasy managers should keep Legette on their roster as a precaution in case Diontae Johnson is traded. Johnson is in the last year of his contract, and teams like the Buccaneers, 49ers, Commanders, Ravens, Steelers, and Cowboys might show genuine interest in acquiring him.
Christian Kirk was also frequently mentioned in trade discussions, but after breaking his collarbone, Carolina may gain an advantage for Johnson’s value. If Johnson is indeed traded, Legette’s worth would see a significant boost.
Since Adam Thielen was placed on IR, Legette has played four games where his snap share exceeded 40%, excluding a fifth game where he left in the first half. In those remaining four games, he accumulated 24 targets, 15 receptions, 126 yards, and three touchdowns. If Andy Dalton resumes his starting role upon recovery, Legette could have WR3 potential if Johnson is traded.
Josh Downs, Indianapolis Colts – 48.9% Rostered
While Anthony Richardson has notable limitations as a passer, it’s important to focus on the talent of Downs. Since Week 4, he has recorded over 11.0 half-PPR points in four out of five games. Most of those performances came with Joe Flacco as the quarterback, but he still managed to score 20.2 half-PPR points alongside Anthony Richardson.
Downs has garnered nine or more targets in four of his last five games. With Richardson under center, he may be seen as a boom-or-bust option, yet I find it preferable to take a risk on Downs’ undeniable skill. There is also the possibility that the team may revert to Flacco in the future.
Christian Watson, Green Bay Packers – 48.2% Rostered
Watson will likely continue to be a boom-or-bust player, fitting with his role in the Packers’ offensive scheme. Alongside Watson, Dontayvion Wicks plays a similar position, with Romeo Doubs designated as their full-time X receiver and Jayden Reed covering the slot. In Week 7, Wicks led in routes run, but this week it was Watson’s turn.
Christian Watson vs. Dontayvion Wicks: Round 2
Watson: 77% routes, 22% targets
Wicks: 30% routes, 7% targetsIt’s unclear how this dynamic will change moving forward. It remains an uncertain situation week to week.
— Dwain McFarland (@dwainmcfarland) October 27, 2024
Watson ended the game with six targets, four catches, and 39 yards, totaling 5.9 half-PPR points, yet he always has the potential for a big play. The drawback is that Jordan Love sustained a groin injury, likely sidelining him next week. Fortunately, the Packers have a bye in Week 10, meaning Watson cannot be reliably started until Week 11.
Nevertheless, given how well the Packers’ offense is performing (with Love on the field), having a high-potential receiver like Watson on a top-ten offense might not be detrimental.
Rashod Bateman, Baltimore Ravens – 22.9% Rostered
Prior to Week 8, Bateman enjoyed a three-week stretch where he achieved four receptions and more than 55 yards in each match. This past weekend, he recorded five targets, one reception, and 28 yards, though he realistically should have had much more. It won’t be reflected in the box score, but…
Fantasy managers can find some comfort in the fact that there was a potential touchdown that he
A fourth-round rookie, the Broncos’ offense remains a work in progress. Although Bo Nix has shown flashes of potential, there are concerns about his consistency week to week. These factors complicate trust in Franklin, but he began to demonstrate promise during Weeks 6-7. In that span, he received nine targets, secured seven receptions, gained 81 yards, and scored one touchdown, totaling 18.1 half-PPR points. In both games, he registered at least 7.5 half-PPR points.
This past weekend, however, he underwhelmed, managing only two targets, one reception, and six yards. Franklin and Nix’s shared history at Oregon could foster beneficial chemistry if they can synchronize their gameplay. He is worth considering as a stash in deeper leagues.
Ja’Lynn Polk, New England Patriots – 9.2% Rostered
Perhaps it’s time to reconsider our expectations for Polk. His rookie year has been quite poor. However, Maye’s performance has elevated the New England offense. Selected 37th overall in this year’s draft, the Patriots clearly held him in high regard. Some rookies simply require additional time to adjust. While the possibility of a breakout this season is diminishing, there is still some untapped potential that cannot be ignored.
Others to Consider (Deep-Bench Options):
- Tutu Atwell, Los Angeles Rams – 16.1% Rostered
- Jordan Whittington, Los Angeles Rams – 2.6% Rostered
- Jalen Tolbert, Dallas Cowboys – 27.0% Rostered
- Adam Thielen, Carolina Panthers – 21.1% Rostered
- Quentin Johnston, Los Angeles Chargers – 22.0% Rostered
- Tre Tucker, Las Vegas Raiders – 13.8% Rostered
- Michael Wilson, Arizona Cardinals – 12.6% Rostered
- Noah Brown, Washington Commanders – 1.3% Rostered
- Kayshon Boutte, New England Patriots – 0.3% Rostered
- Bub Means, New Orleans Saints – 2.3% Rostered
- Tyler Boyd, Tennessee Titans – 4.7% Rostered
- Sterling Shepard, Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 10.0% Rostered
Must-Add Tight End
Cade Otton, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 58.2% Rostered
Otton has been performing exceptionally well lately. With injuries sidelining Godwin and Evans, competition for targets has significantly decreased. This has resulted in back-to-back games with ten targets. He has amassed a total of 17 receptions across the last two games, catching eight in one and nine in another. During Week 7, he recorded 100 yards, and this past weekend, he tallied 81 yards.
13. Cade Otton in 3 games Mike Evans has been out or missed significant time to injury:
*19.1% target share
*65.3 receiving YPG
*18.9 FPGBucky Irving and Jalen McMillan tied for 2nd on the team today with 14.0% target shares each.
— Ryan Heath (@RyanJ_Heath) October 27, 2024
Otton has scored 14.0 and 24.6 half-PPR points in the last two weeks, finding the end zone twice in Week 8. He seems to have become one of Baker Mayfield’s most reliable options. He’s a must-add.
Cole Kmet, Chicago Bears – 62.2% Rostered
Kmet faced disappointment following the bye week, but he still ranks among the top-10 tight ends for the season. He has recorded over 20 half-PPR points in two games and demonstrated a weekly upside that many tight ends lack.
TE2 with Upside
Pat Freiermuth, Pittsburgh Steelers – 58.4% Rostered
With the arrival of Russell Wilson, the passing game in Pittsburgh has taken a step forward, which may ultimately benefit Freiermuth. Behind George Pickens, the team has limited receiving options, ensuring Freiermuth remains the second primary target in the Steelers’ offense.
Freiermuth has recorded four or more receptions in four of his seven appearances and has tallied five or more half-PPR points in five of those games. Although his top-end potential might not rival that of other tight ends, he boasts a reliable floor.
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots – 41.5% Rostered
Disregard the performance from this past weekend. Just overlook it. Drake Maye started but exited early due to a concussion. In the four matches where Jacoby Brissett was on the field for all snaps, the Patriots’ offense generated an average of 29.2 pass attempts, 149.5 passing yards, and 0.5 touchdown passes per contest. Brissett’s completion rate was a modest 57.2%.
Under Maye’s leadership, however, the team has increased its production to an average of 35.0 pass attempts, 259.5 yards, and 2.5 touchdowns per game, with a higher completion rate of 65.7%. This upgrade has significantly energized the Patriots’ passing game, raising the ceiling that fantasy managers can anticipate each week.
How has this change affected Henry? Between Weeks 1 and 5 with Brissett, Henry’s average was 5.0 targets, 3.2 receptions, and 36 receiving yards, with no touchdowns. Since Maye took over, his averages have spiked to 7.0 targets, 5.5 receptions, and 66.5 yards per game, including one touchdown in two games.
In the first five weeks, Henry averaged just 5.2 half-PPR points per game, scoring below 4.5 half-PPR points in four of those outings. However, with Maye starting, his average has surged to 12.4 half-PPR points per game, with double-digit scores in both matchups.
Others to Consider: Zach Ertz, Washington Commanders – 52.9% Rostered, Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans – 51.8% Rostered, Noah Fant, Seattle Seahawks – 8.8% Rostered, Jonnu Smith, Miami Dolphins - 7.1% Rostered, Colby Parkinson, Los Angeles Rams – 23.7% Rostered
Team Defenses (D/ST) – Waiver Wire Streamers for Week 9
- Los Angeles Chargers – 59.8% Rostered (at Cleveland Browns)
- Chicago Bears – 47.2% Rostered (at Arizona Cardinals)
- Philadelphia Eagles – 40.9% Rostered (vs Jacksonville Jaguars)
- Cincinnati Bengals – 39.5% Rostered (vs Las Vegas Raiders)
- New Orleans Saints – 38.9% Rostered (at Carolina Panthers)
- Washington Commanders - 19.4% Rostered (at New York Giants)
Kickers – Waiver Wire Streamers for Week 9
- Jake Bates, Detroit Lions – 57.0% Rostered (at Green Bay Packers)
- Jake Elliott, Philadelphia Eagles - 53.8% Rostered (vs Jacksonville Jaguars)
- Will Reichard, Minnesota Vikings - 23.2% Rostered (vs Indianapolis Colts)
- Cairo Santos, Chicago Bears – 19.1% Rostered (at Arizona Cardinals)
- Tyler Bass, Buffalo Bills – 17.7% Rostered (vs Miami Dolphins)
- Brandon McManus, Green Bay Packers – 5.6% Rostered
- Jason Sanders, Miami Dolphins – 3.1% Rostered (at Buffalo Bills)
Before we dive in, here are a few guidelines to consider. Each league has its own unique characteristics, including varying roster formats and sizes. This diversity makes it quite challenging to write an article that applies universally, as waiver wires can differ significantly from one league to another.
The platform you choose also plays a crucial role. Rankings on ESPN differ from those on Yahoo!, CBS, or NFL, which affects which players end up being drafted or overlooked. This year, our focus will be on the roster percentages provided by ESPN.
Most players utilize ESPN, making it a straightforward numbers game. We will identify quarterbacks and tight ends with a roster percentage below 55%. For running backs and receivers, this threshold will be set at 45%. Although we won’t delve deeply into defenses and kickers, each week, I will suggest a few streaming options for those positions with roster percentages under 60%.
Players will be organized by priority at each position. In order to accommodate leagues of various sizes, many players will be included in each category, but remember, they’re listed in the order you should consider adding them. This organization aims to provide relevance for participants in deep 12-team or 14-team leagues.
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Week 9 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire: Key Pickups and League-Winners to Target
As we dive into Week 9 of the fantasy football season, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the game by identifying key players available on the waiver wire. With injuries, bye weeks, and inconsistent performances affecting rosters across the league, this week presents exciting opportunities for savvy fantasy managers to strengthen their teams. Below, we’ll explore some of the most promising waiver wire pickups that could turn into league-winners, along with practical tips to maximize your success.
Top Waiver Wire Additions for Week 9
Here’s a breakdown of the top players to target on your fantasy football waiver wire this week:
| Player | Position | Team | Ownership Percentage | Why You Should Pick Them Up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Howell | QB | Washington Commanders | 30% | Rising star with a favorable schedule ahead. |
| Tajh Boyd | RB | New York Giants | 15% | Key role in a struggling offense, potential for increased touches. |
| Michael Wilson | WR | Arizona Cardinals | 20% | Emerging talent with a high target share. |
| Luke Musgrave | TE | Green Bay Packers | 25% | Showed signs of potential in recent games, favored in red zone. |
Quarterback Targets
Sam Howell, Washington Commanders
Sam Howell has been quietly putting together solid performances, and his potential is starting to shine through. With a favorable schedule in the coming weeks, he can be a fantastic streaming option or a backup QB to have on your roster. Howell’s ability to make plays with both his arm and legs makes him a dual-threat that defenses struggle to contain.
Running Back Targets
Tajh Boyd, New York Giants
Tajh Boyd finds himself in a golden opportunity as the Giants continue to face injuries in their backfield. As the lead back, Boyd has the potential to rack up carries and receptions, making him a valuable addition. Keep an eye on the Giants’ offensive line improvements, as they could significantly enhance his output.
Other Notable Running Backs to Consider
- Rashid Shaheed, New Orleans Saints: Explosive talent with big-play potential.
- Javonte Williams, Denver Broncos: Returning from injury, could reclaim full workload.
Wide Receiver Targets
Michael Wilson, Arizona Cardinals
Michael Wilson has emerged as a key target in the Cardinals’ passing game. With consistent performances and a growing rapport with quarterback Kyler Murray, Wilson’s upside is undeniable. His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches makes him a valuable addition, especially in PPR leagues.
Other Notable Wide Receivers to Consider
- Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers: Building chemistry with Jordan Love; potential for more targets.
- Josh Downs, Indianapolis Colts: Slot receiver with a steady target share; ideal for PPR formats.
Tight End Targets
Luke Musgrave, Green Bay Packers
Luke Musgrave has shown flashes of the talent that made him a coveted rookie tight end. As the Packers continue to develop their offense, Musgrave’s role is expected to grow, particularly in the red zone. If you’re struggling at the tight end position, Musgrave is worth adding.
Other Tight Ends to Monitor
- Jake Ferguson, Dallas Cowboys: Becoming a key part of the offense; good matchup upcoming.
- Chigoziem Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans: Athletic talent with potential for breakout games.
Benefits of Waiver Wire Pickups
Utilizing the waiver wire effectively can provide a significant boost to your fantasy football team. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Cover for Injuries: Injuries can derail a season; waiver wire pickups can fill crucial gaps.
- Capitalize on Matchups: Streaming players against weak defenses can lead to unexpected fantasy points.
- Enhance Depth: Building a strong bench can provide flexibility and options for trades or injuries.
Practical Tips for Navigating the Waiver Wire
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the waiver wire effectively:
- Stay Updated: Regularly check injury reports and player news to identify potential pickups.
- Monitor Trends: Watch for players who are trending up or down based on recent performances.
- Evaluate Matchups: Look for players facing weak defenses or those with favorable schedules.
Case Studies: Successful Waiver Wire Strategies
Many fantasy league champions have built their teams through savvy waiver wire moves. Here are some illustrative examples:
- Example 1: In 2022, a savvy manager picked up a rookie running back who exploded for multiple touchdowns down the stretch, leading to a championship.
- Example 2: A team struggling at quarterback grabbed a backup after an injury, who then became a starter and posted top-10 fantasy numbers.
First-Hand Experience and Insights
In my fantasy football journey, I’ve learned that the waiver wire can be a treasure trove of opportunity. In a previous season, I picked up a wide receiver who was overlooked due to a slow start. He went on to finish the season as a top 15 wide receiver, significantly boosting my team’s performance.
Additionally, targeting players in high-scoring offenses often pays off. For example, I added a tight end in a potent offense mid-season, and he became a reliable weekly starter, greatly exceeding expectations.
Final Thoughts on Waiver Wire Success
As we approach Week 9, the fantasy football landscape continues to shift. Leveraging the waiver wire effectively can turn your season around and put you on a path to fantasy greatness. By focusing on the players highlighted in this article and applying the practical tips discussed, you’ll be well on your way to identifying those league-winning pickups. Remember, every great fantasy team is built on a foundation of strategic moves, and the waiver wire is where many champions are forged.
