In what has become a recurring theme in this column, injuries continue to plague fantasy managers. The waiver wire is no longer just a luxury for shoring up and strengthening benches — it’s increasingly a necessity to find players who can step right into starting lineups.
In shallow formats, Kimani Vidal should be your top priority. While he’s likely already rostered in most competitive leagues, there are still some in which he inexplicably could be available.
For those in deeper formats, there are still serviceable players to be found. Fantasy is a weekly game — and as the weeks dwindle, missed opportunities on the wire can cost you wins. Being proactive every week is key, regardless of format.
Managers now face not only the loss of stars like Emeka Egbuka, Puka Nacua, and Garrett Wilson, but also the dreaded bye-week gauntlet. Six teams are off in Week 8, followed by four each in Weeks 9 and 10. Stay one step ahead, especially if multiple starters share the same bye.
This is also the perfect time to stash under-the-radar handcuffs for running backs. While RB health has been better in recent seasons, workloads pile up, and late-season opportunities often emerge. You have already seen Kenneth Gainwell, Michael Carter, and Vidal put up big numbers in consecutive weeks. Find the players who could be the next ones and add them to your roster.
This week’s waiver wire brings intriguing quarterback and tight end options — along with several short-term wide receiver plays created by injuries.
Upcoming Bye Weeks
Week Seven
Buffalo
Baltimore
Week Eight
- Arizona
- Detroit
- Jacksonville
- Las Vegas
- LA Rams
- Seattle Seahawks
Week Nine
- Cleveland
- NY Jets
- Philadelphia
- Tampa Bay
Running Backs
Bam Knight (RB, Ari) — Bam Knight saw an increased workload in Week 6, finishing 11-34-1 on the ground and adding a 20-yard catch. He was out-touched by Carter, but outproduced him in fantasy. Emari Demercado hurt his ankle Sunday, which should consolidate touches even more among Carter and Knight.
Jaydon Blue (RB, Dal) — Handcuff to Javonte Williams moving forward. Miles Sanders is done for the year.
