The first round of the fantasy football playoffs was nothing short of electrifying, especially for wide receivers. Stars like Davante Adams, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Mike Evans, Brian Thomas Jr., DeVonta Smith, CeeDee Lamb, Terry McLaurin, A.J. Brown, Malik Nabers, Rashod Bateman, Jerry Jeudy, and Jalen Coker all lit up the scoreboard, each scoring at least 21 points. This performance underscores just how critical wide receivers are in the fantasy playoffs.
Now, let’s talk about the players who might have slipped through your fingers last week. Coker and Bateman were the only two from this impressive list who were likely warming the bench for many fantasy managers. But don’t fret! You have a chance to rectify that this week.
Wide receivers can make or break your fantasy team in the playoffs. With crucial start/sit decisions looming over your WR3 and flex positions, it’s essential to base your choices on favorable matchups. Luckily, there are some enticing options available on the waiver wire for Week 16.
Let’s not waste any more time. Here are the top streaming WR options for Week 16, with availability data coming from ESPN.
Jalen McMillan, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 89% Available
I highlighted McMillan last week, and he didn’t disappoint. He finished with **five catches for 75 yards and a touchdown** against the Chargers. Over the last two weeks, he’s seen **13 targets** for a **23.2% target share** and has scored three touchdowns. It looks like he’s finally cemented his role as the WR2 in a high-octane Bucs offense that loves to air it out.
In the upcoming weeks, McMillan faces two favorable matchups. The Bucs take on the Cowboys in Week 16, a team that surrenders the **10th most fantasy points** per game to perimeter wide receivers. Following that, they’ll face the Saints, who are giving up the **ninth-most fantasy points** to outside WRs.
While **Mike Evans** remains the clear alpha in Tampa Bay, McMillan has been the most targeted player on the team outside of Evans over the last two weeks. His target share is trending upward, making him a valuable asset as the playoffs progress.
Rashod Bateman, Baltimore Ravens, 80% Available
Bateman is the Ravens’ big-play receiver, and he certainly delivered in Week 15. Against a struggling Giants secondary, Bateman recorded **three catches for 80 yards and two touchdowns**, amassing **23 points**. This marked his second game with over 22 points this season, alongside two other games exceeding 15 points.
While his **15.3% target share** raises some eyebrows, the Ravens are set to face a Steelers defense that gives up the **11th most yards** per game to opposing WRs and has allowed the **fourth-most points per target** since Week 9. In Week 17, they’ll meet a Browns defense that is giving up the **ninth-most receiving yards**.
Starting Bateman is certainly a gamble, but with **Lamar Jackson** and the Ravens’ passing game firing on all cylinders, he’s worth considering for your roster.
Jalen Coker, Carolina Panthers, 98% Available
Following **Xavier Leggette’s** groin injury in Week 15, Coker’s status is looking promising. Even with Leggette on the field, Coker managed an **83-yard touchdown catch**, finishing with **110 yards and a touchdown**. If Leggette is sidelined, expect Coker to play a significant role in the Panthers’ offense.
In Week 16, the Panthers face a tough Cardinals secondary that allows the **ninth-fewest fantasy points** to opposing WRs. However, they will then take on the Bucs in Week 17, who give up the **10th-most fantasy points** to WRs.
Even against the Cardinals, where a negative game script is likely, the Panthers should throw enough to make Coker a viable flex option. Additionally, **Adam Thielen** is another name to consider if you’re looking for depth.
In the world of fantasy football, every point counts, especially during the playoffs. With these wide receivers stepping up, you have the opportunity to bolster your lineup and make a deep run. Remember, the right streaming options can be the difference between victory and defeat. Keep your eyes on the matchups, trust your gut, and may your fantasy team soar to new heights this week!
