As we dive into Week 13 of the NFL season, the excitement is palpable! Whether you’re gearing up for this week or strategizing for the upcoming weeks, the key question is: how do you prioritize your waiver wire pickups and manage your free-agent acquisition budget (FAAB)? Let’s break down the best strategies for allocating your budget to snag those potential game-changers for your fantasy roster.
Week 13 Fantasy FAAB Advice: Waiver wire QB pickups, streamers
Cooper Rush, Dallas Cowboys (available in 95% of Yahoo! leagues)
Rush stepped up big time against the Commanders, proving to be a viable option for those in Superflex and two-QB leagues. With his growing chemistry with key targets like CeeDee Lamb and backup tight end Luke Schoonmaker, he’s a solid choice for this week. Facing the Giants at home, he could be the spark your lineup needs.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (available in 95% of Yahoo! leagues)
If you’re looking for a streaming option, Young is finally stepping up as a legitimate quarterback option, especially after Andy Dalton’s injury. He’s showing promise in Dave Canales’ system, and with a favorable matchup against the Bucs, he could deliver some solid points.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Jameis Winston, Cleveland Browns (available in 85% of Yahoo! leagues)
Winston might not have lit up the scoreboard against the Steelers, but his gunslinger mentality means he’s always a threat to rack up points. If you can tolerate his occasional interceptions, he could be a valuable backup against the Broncos this week.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Week 13 Fantasy FAAB Advice: Waiver wire RB pickups, streamers
Roschon Johnson, Chicago Bears (available in 72% of Yahoo! leagues)
Johnson has carved out a role as a power back, complementing D’Andre Swift nicely. With Swift handling most of the passing duties, Johnson’s touchdown potential makes him a must-add, especially for Swift managers looking for insurance.
Recommendation: Bid 2-3% of FAAB
Kenneth Gainwell, Philadelphia Eagles (available in 98% of Yahoo! leagues)
Gainwell made his mark during garbage time, but his role as the clear No. 2 behind Saquon Barkley is crucial. With Barkley’s injury history, Gainwell is a must-have handcuff for any fantasy manager looking to bolster their backfield.
Recommendation: Bid 2-3% of FAAB
Ameer Abdullah, Las Vegas Raiders (available in 75% of Yahoo! leagues)
Abdullah has shown flashes of relevance lately, especially with injuries to Mattison and White. Although his last outing against the Broncos was underwhelming, he remains a valuable asset if you’re in need of running back depth.
Recommendation: Bid 1-2% of FAAB
Week 13 Fantasy FAAB Advice: Waiver wire WR pickups, streamers
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Tennessee Titans (available in 88% of Yahoo! leagues)
Westbrook-Ikhine has been a consistent contributor when Will Levis is under center, making him a reliable deep threat and touchdown scorer. He deserves a spot on your roster, especially in 12-team leagues and beyond.
Recommendation: Bid 4-5% of FAAB
David Moore, Carolina Panthers (available in 100% of Yahoo! leagues)
Moore emerged as a surprising top receiver against the Chiefs, showcasing great chemistry with Bryce Young. With a favorable matchup against the Bucs, he could be a sneaky play this week.
Recommendation: Bid 3-4% of FAAB
DeMario Douglas, New England Patriots (available in 69% of Yahoo! leagues)
Douglas has become a steady option in PPR formats, consistently contributing with his target volume. He’s a solid FLEX play for those in deeper leagues.
Recommendation: Bid 3-4% of FAAB
Xavier Legette, Carolina Panthers (available in 73% of Yahoo! leagues)
Legette may not be flashy yet, but he’s getting opportunities in a spread-out Panthers offense. He could be a decent streaming option in a pinch against the Bucs.
Recommendation: Bid 3-4% of FAAB
Noah Brown, Washington Commanders (available in 90% of Yahoo! leagues)
Brown is making a case for himself as the No. 2 receiver behind Terry McLaurin. His experience and rapport with Jayden Daniels could lead to increased production down the stretch.
Recommendation: Bid 2-3% of FAAB
Week 13 Fantasy FAAB Advice: Waiver wire TE pickups, streamers
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots (available in 52% of Yahoo! leagues)
Henry has been a consistent presence in the Patriots’ passing game, making him a reliable TE2 option. If you’re struggling at tight end, he’s worth a look.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Noah Gray, Kansas City Chiefs (available in 77% of Yahoo! leagues)
Gray has stepped up in a big way, especially with Travis Kelce’s recent struggles. With back-to-back 2-TD games, he’s becoming a key part of the Chiefs’ offense.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Cole Kmet, Chicago Bears (available in 53% of Yahoo! leagues)
Kmet’s role has expanded significantly, especially with 10 targets last week. He could be a valuable asset against the Lions this Thursday.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Zach Ertz, Washington Commanders (available in 52% of Yahoo! leagues)
Ertz is emerging as a top option for the Commanders, especially in high-pressure situations. He could be a key contributor in the coming weeks.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Austin Hooper, New England Patriots (available in 100% of Yahoo! leagues)
Hooper has been a steady performer lately, making him a viable option in deeper leagues. He’s becoming an integral part of the Patriots’ passing game.
Recommendation: Bid 0-1% of FAAB
Week 13 Fantasy FAAB Advice: Waiver wire D/ST pickups, streamers
(Note: Do not spend any of your FAAB budget on D/ST! Get them for $0 after waivers run!)
Dallas Cowboys (available in 72% of Yahoo! leagues)
The Cowboys are set to face the Giants at home, and with their strong pass defense, they could capitalize on this matchup to rack up some fantasy points.
Seattle Seahawks (available in 50% of Yahoo! leagues)
The Seahawks are coming off a dominant performance against the Cardinals and will look to carry that momentum into their matchup against the Jets. Expect plenty of opportunities for turnovers and sacks.
With these insights, you’re well-equipped to make the most of your waiver wire pickups this week. Good luck, and may your fantasy team thrive!
