Week 9 in the NFL was a rollercoaster for many fantasy managers, and let’s be honest—it was likely a frustrating experience. Star players like A.J. Brown, C.J. Stroud, and Marvin Harrison Jr. fell short of expectations, leaving many fans feeling disappointed. But don’t let that frustration linger! It’s time to regroup, refocus, and tackle the first item on your Week 10 to-do list: filing those all-important waiver claims.
If you lost a player to injury or are simply tired of watching someone underperform week after week, the waiver wire could be your best friend. While it may not feel ideal to search for replacements, there are starter-level talents waiting to be picked up. The key is to identify players with favorable matchups and those who are seeing increased opportunities within their offenses.
Last week, we highlighted players like Bo Nix and Cedric Tillman as strong waiver pickups, and both delivered impressive performances. As we turn our attention to Week 10, let’s dive into another batch of candidates who could help you turn your fantasy season around.
Top fantasy football waiver wire pickups for Week 10
Roster percentages are based on Yahoo! fantasy leagues, and these players could be the difference-makers you need.
Ray Davis, RB, Buffalo Bills (21% Rostered)
Ray Davis has made the most of every opportunity this season. In his only start a few weeks ago, he amassed an impressive 152 yards from scrimmage and scored 18.2 PPR points. Even in Week 9, he showcased his potential with a 63-yard receiving touchdown on just six touches. He’s proven to be a high-end handcuff and should be on rosters in all leagues with moderately deep benches.
Quentin Johnston, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (15% Rostered)
Quentin Johnston is back and ready to make an impact. Before his injury in Week 6, he had some standout performances, and he picked up right where he left off in Week 10. Johnston scored on a 66-yard pitch-and-catch from Justin Herbert, demonstrating his big-play ability. As long as he can keep finding the end zone, he’s a high-upside Flex option, especially in favorable matchups.
Bo Nix, QB, Denver Broncos (34% Rostered)
Bo Nix has been a pleasant surprise, scoring fantasy points not just through the air but also as a rusher. In Week 9, he even caught a touchdown pass, bringing his total to 10.8 fantasy points without relying on passing yards. With five QB1 finishes in his last five games, Nix is proving he can be a reliable starter in the right matchups.
Who are the top quarterback waiver wire targets?
Finding a solid quarterback can be a game-changer for your fantasy team. Here are two names to consider:
Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets (43% Rostered)
Aaron Rodgers looked rejuvenated against the Texans last week, hitting his receivers with precision and throwing multiple touchdowns. This performance marked the Jets’ offense at its best in a while, allowing Rodgers to secure his second top-10 finish of the season. If you’re lacking a consistent QB, he’s worth stashing, hoping the Jets can harness their offensive talent.
Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers (44% Rostered)
It’s been a tale of two seasons for Justin Herbert. After a slow start, he’s now thrown over 30 passes in three of his last four games. With two consecutive QB1 finishes, Herbert is showing that he can deliver meaningful fantasy production. If the Chargers continue to air it out, he could be a solid QB1 option in favorable matchups.
Who are the other top running back waiver wire targets?
Running backs are always in high demand, and here are some players to keep an eye on:
Keaton Mitchell, Baltimore Ravens (10% Rostered)
Keaton Mitchell is set to return in Week 10 after recovering from an ACL injury. Last season, he was one of the most explosive rushers, averaging 8.4 yards per carry. He’s a great stash for teams looking to add high-upside running backs.
Audric Estime, RB, Denver Broncos (1% Rostered)
The Broncos’ backfield has been a mess, but head coach Sean Payton is looking to give Audric Estime more touches as the season progresses. If you’re in need of a speculative stash, Estime could emerge as a valuable asset.
Cam Akers, RB, Minnesota Vikings (6% Rostered)
Cam Akers has taken over as the No. 2 running back in Minnesota, surpassing Ty Chandler. He played 16 snaps and received eight opportunities last week. While he might not be the most talented back, he’s the clear handcuff in this offense.
Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons (39% Rostered)
Tyler Allgeier is a handcuff with benefits. He can see 10-plus touches in a game, providing standalone value. If Bijan Robinson misses time, Allgeier could step into an RB1 role, making him a must-have player.
Khalil Herbert, Cincinnati Bengals (8% Rostered)
After the Bengals made some moves at running back, Khalil Herbert is now in the mix. Once he acclimates to the offense, he’ll serve as the 1B behind Chase Brown. While he may not have standalone value, he’s worth a pickup as a handcuff.
Who are the other top wide receiver waiver wire targets?
Wide receivers can be game-changers, too. Here are some names to consider:
Xavier Legette, Carolina Panthers (27% Rostered)
Xavier Legette has stepped up as the WR1 since Diontae Johnson’s departure, leading the team in targets. While the Panthers’ offense may struggle, a player seeing 6-8 targets weekly is worth a roster spot.
Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland Browns (43% Rostered)
With Jameis Winston at quarterback, Jerry Jeudy has thrived, receiving 19 targets in the last two games. If Winston maintains his role, Jeudy can be a valuable Flex option for teams needing WR depth.
Who are the other top tight end waiver wire targets?
Tight ends can be tricky, but here are two players to keep an eye on:
Mike Gesicki, Cincinnati Bengals (13% Rostered)
Mike Gesicki has become the Bengals’ WR2 in Tee Higgins’ absence, ranking second in targets over the last two games. If Higgins remains sidelined, Gesicki could be a solid starting option at tight end.
Taysom Hill, New Orleans Saints (37% Rostered)
Taysom Hill had a vintage performance in Week 9, scoring 16 fantasy points. With Kendre Miller on IR and Jamaal Williams potentially missing more time, Hill could see increased usage, making him a high-upside tight end option.
Who are the top defense waiver wire targets and streamers?
Defensive matchups can make or break your week. Here are two defenses to consider:
New York Giants (6% Rostered)
The Giants’ defense is a strong streaming option against the struggling Carolina offense. With a talented defensive line, they should be able to generate sacks and turnovers, leading to a solid fantasy performance.
Washington Commanders (58% Rostered)
The Commanders have turned their season around defensively. Since Week 5, they rank 4th in EPA per play and have limited opponents to fewer than 20 points. They’re in a great position to continue their hot streak against Russell Wilson and the Steelers.
As you prepare for Week 10, remember that the waiver wire can be your best ally. Whether you’re looking for a quarterback, running back, wide receiver, or tight end, there are opportunities out there to strengthen your roster. Happy hunting!
