The fantasy postseason is heating up as we enter the semifinal matchups! With the first round behind us, many fantasy leagues are down to the final four teams, and the pressure is on. While most lineups are set, Week 15 brought some injuries and standout performances that could open the door for savvy fantasy managers to make some key additions.
To help navigate these crucial roster decisions, let’s dive into 10 players you should consider adding off the waiver wire. Remember to tune into Fantasy Dirt with me and Lindsay Rhodes five days a week, especially on Tuesdays when we break down the latest free agents!
Key Players to Consider
Jerome Ford, RB, Browns
ESPN – 32.4%; Sleeper – 42%; Yahoo! – 42%
Ford had an impressive outing against the Chiefs, racking up two catches, 104 total yards, and a touchdown for 18.4 fantasy points. With Nick Chubb sidelined for the season due to a broken foot, Ford is poised to step up as the Browns’ lead running back. He’s set for a favorable matchup against the Bengals, making him the hottest pickup of the week.
Kendre Miller, RB, Saints
ESPN – 8%; Sleeper – 16%; Yahoo! – 11%
Miller is expected to be one of the most sought-after players this week, especially after Alvin Kamara suffered a groin injury in a recent loss to the Commanders. If Kamara can’t go on Monday night against the Packers, Miller could emerge as a flex starter, making him a valuable addition in many leagues.
Tyjae Spears, RB, Titans
ESPN – 43.2%; Sleeper – 46%; Yahoo! – 44%
Spears is riding high after a career-best performance where he caught six passes for 92 total yards and scored two touchdowns, totaling 27.2 fantasy points. With Tony Pollard not at 100% during the game, Spears could see increased opportunities moving forward, making him a player worth adding.
Pat Freiermuth, TE, Steelers
ESPN – 51.2%; Sleeper – 58%; Yahoo! – 65%
Freiermuth has been a reliable option for fantasy managers, scoring at least 9.9 points in five of his last six games, including three with over 13 points. He’s also found the end zone in his last three outings, making him a solid choice for those in search of a tight end.
Quentin Johnston, WR, Chargers
ESPN – 56.2%; Sleeper – 56%; Yahoo! – 41%
Johnston has been on fire lately, scoring a combined 31.3 fantasy points with a touchdown in each of the last two games. With matchups against the Chiefs and Patriots coming up, he could be a valuable flex starter as we head deeper into the fantasy playoffs.
Brenton Strange, TE, Jaguars
ESPN – 2%; Sleeper – 7%; Yahoo! – 2%
If you’re in need of a tight end, look no further than Strange! He exploded in his first game since Evan Engram went on injured reserve, catching 11 passes for 73 yards and scoring a career-high 18.3 fantasy points. With a favorable matchup against the Raiders next, he’s definitely worth considering.
Romeo Doubs, WR, Packers
ESPN – 40.4%; Sleeper – 52%; Yahoo! – 38%
Doubs made a triumphant return, scoring two touchdowns and racking up 19 PPR points against the Seahawks. With the Packers set to host the Saints and then face the Vikings, who struggle against wide receivers, Doubs is a player to keep an eye on.
Aaron Rodgers, QB, Jets
ESPN – 43.8%; Sleeper – 38%; Yahoo! – 34%
Rodgers has been on a roll, exploiting a weak Jaguars defense for 289 yards, three touchdowns, and a season-high 30.1 fantasy points. With a matchup against the Rams on the horizon, he’s a solid option for teams looking for quarterback help.
Carson Wentz, QB, Chiefs
ESPN – 0.1%; Sleeper – 0%; Yahoo! – 0%
With Patrick Mahomes dealing with an ankle injury, Wentz could find himself starting in Week 16 against the Texans. This matchup could present a golden opportunity for those in need of a quarterback, especially in super flex formats.
As we gear up for the semifinals, these players could be the difference-makers for your fantasy team. Keep an eye on the waiver wire, and don’t hesitate to make those crucial roster moves. Good luck in your fantasy playoffs!
