As Championship Week approaches, fantasy managers are urged to maximize their rosters through strategic waiver wire pickups. This week’s focus is on identifying players available in more than 50% of Yahoo leagues who could elevate lineups just in time for pivotal matchups. Fantasy players are encouraged to use their Free Agent Acquisition Budget (FAB) to secure these potential game-changers, particularly with the season nearing its end and resources not rolling over into next year.
One of the top running back pickups this week is Kendre Miller of the New Orleans Saints. With Alvin Kamara sidelined due to a groin injury, Miller steps into a significant role amidst a struggling offense. Though the Saints have floundered, Miller has shown promise with solid performances in recent games, including a productive outing against the Packers. His upcoming matchup against the Raiders provides an opportunity for fantasy managers to slot him as a potential flex option. Alexander Mattison and Ameer Abdullah from the Raiders also merit consideration; both running backs had strong performances last week, displaying their ability to contribute as primary options in a committee approach with the unfortunate injuries to other backs.
The wide receiver and tight end positions also present opportunities for savvy pickups. Jalen McMillan from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has emerged as a key target, particularly with injuries impacting other players in the offense. His recent performances indicate he could see elevated target counts in the upcoming week. Hollywood Brown, freshly added to the Kansas City Chiefs, has quickly made an impact following his recovery from an injury. He offers a potential flex spot and the ability to capitalize on a powerful passing game led by Patrick Mahomes. Meanwhile, Chig Okonkwo from the Tennessee Titans has emerged as a sleeper tight end option, demonstrating significant volume with double-digit targets in recent games and thrived in terms of fantasy points.
With quarterback play also critical during this playoff stretch, Drake Maye of the New England Patriots is a name to watch. Displaying dual-threat ability, Maye recorded impressive passing and rushing statistics last week and faces a Chargers team with defensive struggles. This dynamic could position him well for fantasy scoring, making him an intriguing option for managers looking for a quarterback boost. Other quarterbacks worth considering include Bryce Young, who is also gaining momentum and showcasing improved performance, and Michael Penix Jr., despite defense communication issues that may arise from his adjustment period.
Furthermore, looking at defensive options, the Miami Dolphins stand out as a priority pickup. They rank favorably against both the run and pass and are facing a Browns offense that has shown considerable weaknesses, especially with Dorian Thompson-Robinson under center. If available, the Dolphins’ defense could be the week’s top streaming option for managers looking to bolster their playoff roster. For kicker considerations, Will Reichard of the Minnesota Vikings presents a solid choice as a replacement for fantasy players providing he remains unclaimed, given his strong performance in a high-scoring offense.
In summary, Championship Week demands balancing risk and opportunity among available players. Running backs like Kendre Miller and Alexander Mattison, along with receivers such as Jalen McMillan and Hollywood Brown, provide promising avenues for fantasy point contributions. Quarterbacks like Drake Maye and Bryce Young can provide much-needed support, while the Dolphins’ defense and Reichard as a kicker present valuable pickups. Fantasy managers need to be proactive in utilizing their waiver wire strategies as they hunt for that all-important championship ring.
