Waiver Wire Week 5: It's Time to Empty Your Wallet (Episode 782 with Adam Levitan and John Daigle)
Oct 1, 2024
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Adam Levitan, a fantasy sports expert, joins John Daigle, an analyst focused on NFL performance, to unpack critical waiver wire strategies. They dive into the impacts of rising injuries, spotlighting key additions like Dontavian Wicks amid Christian Watson’s absence. The duo analyzes the fluctuating value of players like Kareem Hunt and discusses waiver tactics related to Jonathan Taylor's injury. They also explore underperforming tight ends, highlighting Tucker Kraft as a potential savior in leagues needing depth.
Dontavian Wicks is a top waiver wire target this week due to Christian Watson's injury, meriting a budget allocation of 50-70%.
Kareem Hunt's rising role in the Chiefs' backfield positions him as a valuable asset, likely benefiting from continued opportunities moving forward.
Deep dives
Dontavian Wicks as a Priority Pickup
Dontavian Wicks is identified as a crucial wide receiver to add this week, especially for fantasy players who may have missed earlier opportunities. With Christian Watson's injury causing uncertainty over his playing time, Wicks stands to benefit significantly, becoming a favorable option in the Packers' offense. He has shown strong performance metrics, averaging over 12 PPR points per game and securing a notable share of target opportunities. Given the potential for offensive production in a condensed receiving corps, investing 50 to 70% of available budget on Wicks is strongly recommended.
Kareem Hunt's Rising Role
Kareem Hunt's increasing involvement in the Chiefs' backfield is noteworthy, particularly following a week where he outperformed other running backs. After taking advantage of an opportunity due to a teammate’s fumble, Hunt emerged as the lead option, combining good rushing with passing game involvement. This emerging lead role suggests Hunt may be the preferred choice moving forward, even in a committee approach. As such, he should be prioritized in waiver pickups, making him a more valuable asset than his competition for touches.
Xavier Leggett's Potential
Xavier Leggett's performance has positioned him as an intriguing wide receiver option amidst trade rumors regarding possible shifts in the Panthers' roster. He has demonstrated the capability to step into a more prominent role, maintaining a solid target share despite facing tough defenses. While matchups may bring some uncertainty, his skill set combined with first-round draft status could see him develop into a key player, especially if existing starters are traded. Therefore, fantasy managers should consider stashing Leggett as a valuable long-term asset.
Trey Tucker and the Raiders' Situation
Trey Tucker's fantasy viability has improved significantly in light of Devante Adams' potential absence, suggesting he could emerge as a starting wide receiver. His recent performances indicate he has earned a significant target share and could be beneficial in deeper leagues. However, while he may not be the first option, his speed and effectiveness in previous games position him as a viable flex start. Owners in deeper leagues should keep an eye on Tucker as a potential contributor during upcoming games.
Notable injuries keep piling up across the NFL. Which players should be priority targets on the waiver wire ahead of Week 5? Adam Levitan and John Daigle discuss.
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