Week 8 has left many fantasy managers feeling a bit disheartened. With star players like Jayden Daniels, Kenneth Walker, and Amon-Ra St. Brown failing to meet expectations, it’s understandable to feel frustrated. However, don’t let that disappointment linger for too long. It’s time to regroup and focus on what’s next. The first item on your Week 9 to-do list? Filing those all-important waiver claims!

Finding replacements on the waiver wire

If you lost a player to injury last week or are simply fed up with a particular underperformer, chances are you’ll need to scour the waiver wire for a replacement. While it might not be ideal, there’s starter-level production to be found if you can identify strong matchups and players with increased opportunities in their offenses. Last week, we highlighted names like Bo Nix and Cedric Tillman as solid waiver pickups, both of whom delivered impressive performances in Week 8. Let’s dive into another batch of candidates as you prepare to file your claims for Week 9!

Top fantasy football waiver wire pickups for Week 9

Here are some of the best players to consider adding to your roster this week:

Jameis Winston, QB, Cleveland Browns (6% Rostered)

The Jameis Winston era has officially kicked off in Cleveland! In his first start for the Browns, he threw for an impressive 334 yards and three touchdowns against a depleted Baltimore secondary. His trademark reckless style of play has always held fantasy appeal, and it seems that mentality hasn’t changed. Winston is a swing-for-the-fences option who could be a valuable asset in favorable matchups.

Cedric Tillman, WR, Cleveland Browns (18% Rostered)

Cedric Tillman capitalized on Winston’s emergence, operating as a full-time receiver with a route participation of 93 percent. He accounted for 24 percent of the targets thrown by Winston last week. If he continues to be one of Winston’s preferred targets, Tillman could be a reliable Flex option in the right matchup.

Keon Coleman, WR, Buffalo Bills (41% Rostered)

Keon Coleman has been making waves lately, showcasing his best performances over the last two weeks. Whether it’s due to the arrival of Amari Cooper or simply a rookie finding his stride, Coleman has delivered WR2 performances in consecutive weeks. He’s now seeing 7-plus targets regularly, making him a key player in the new-look Buffalo passing attack.

Quarterback waiver wire targets

Looking for a quarterback to bolster your lineup? Here are some top options:

Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams (39% Rostered)

Matthew Stafford appears to be back in form, throwing for a season-high four touchdowns and scoring 24.8 fantasy points against a tough Vikings defense. With the return of both Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp, Stafford’s success is no surprise. If he can maintain this rhythm with his receivers, he could become a starting consideration in the coming weeks.

Bo Nix, Denver Broncos (25% Rostered)

Bo Nix is making a name for himself as a fantasy-relevant quarterback, thanks in large part to his rushing ability. Averaging over six points per game on the ground, he has finished as a top-10 QB three times in recent weeks, clearing 20 fantasy points in each of those games. His rushing production gives him a solid floor, making him a viable starter in favorable matchups.

Running back waiver wire targets

If you’re in need of running back help, check out these players:

Braelon Allen, New York Jets (37% Rostered)

Braelon Allen has shown flashes of genuine talent and could be a valuable stash on your bench. If Breece Hall misses any time, Allen has the skill set to step in as a three-down back. He’s even demonstrated some standalone value with goal-line usage. He’s definitely worth a roster spot in all 12-team leagues.

Blake Corum, Los Angeles Rams (15% Rostered)

Despite his rostership trickling down, Blake Corum remains a top-tier backup. If Kyren Williams is sidelined, Corum could take on a workload that makes him a weekly RB1. Like Allen, he’s worth stashing over a depth piece that won’t contribute to your lineup.

Wide receiver waiver wire targets

Need some help at wide receiver? Consider these options:

Josh Downs, Indianapolis Colts (47% Rostered)

Josh Downs has quickly emerged as one of the most talented young slot receivers in the league. His ability to shake defenders and earn targets makes him feel like a seasoned veteran. After a stellar 4/109/1 performance in Week 8, he should be rostered in all 12-team leagues and could become a reliable Flex option if Anthony Richardson stabilizes as a passer.

Elijah Moore, Cleveland Browns (2% Rostered)

Elijah Moore has also become one of Jameis Winston’s top targets. With 12 targets against the Ravens, he achieved a 30-percent target share. While he may not be a splashy playmaker, he can pile up receptions for Flex-level production in PPR leagues. He’s a speculative pickup, hoping Winston can create a fantasy-friendly environment in Cleveland.

Tight end waiver wire targets

Here are some tight ends to keep an eye on:

Tyler Conklin, New York Jets (19% Rostered)

Tyler Conklin has delivered three TE1 weeks this season and could be a great pickup for teams missing Kittle. With the Jets being one of the league’s most pass-heavy offenses, Conklin stands to benefit from this philosophy.

Brenton Strange, Jacksonville Jaguars (3% Rostered)

With injuries affecting the Jaguars’ receiving corps, Brenton Strange stepped up in Week 8, finishing with five receptions for 59 yards. If the Jaguars continue to utilize 12 personnel, Strange could see more opportunities, but he’s more of a desperation waiver pickup.

Defense waiver wire targets and streamers

Finally, let’s not forget about defenses! Here are some great streaming options:

Cincinnati Bengals (32% Rostered)

The Bengals’ defense has shown it can contain struggling offenses, holding both the Giants and Browns to 14 or fewer points. With a matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 9, they are a viable option for defensive streamers.

Washington Commanders (12% Rostered)

The Commanders have made significant improvements lately, allowing fewer than 20 points in four of their last five games. Facing a struggling Giants offense, Washington should have no trouble stifling Daniel Jones and company this week.

As we gear up for Week 9, remember that the waiver wire is your friend. Take advantage of these opportunities to strengthen your roster and keep your fantasy hopes alive! Good luck!