Week 12 in fantasy football was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. With several star players like Joe Mixon, Tyreek Hill, Kyler Murray, and Justin Jefferson failing to meet expectations, many fantasy managers were left feeling frustrated and disheartened. If you found yourself in that boat, it’s essential to shake off the disappointment and focus on what’s next. The first order of business for Week 13? Filing those waiver claims!
If you lost a player to injury or are simply tired of watching someone underperform, the waiver wire is your best friend. While it may not be ideal to rely on free agents, there are still starter-level players out there. The key is to target those with favorable matchups and increased opportunities in their respective offenses.
Last week, we highlighted potential pickups like Jerry Jeudy, Ameer Abdullah, and Bo Nix, who all exceeded expectations. This week, we’re back with another batch of players who could help you turn your season around.
Top fantasy football waiver wire pickups for Week 13
Roster percentages are based on Yahoo! fantasy leagues, so you know who’s available.
Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Green Bay Packers (15% Rostered)
Let’s start with Dontayvion Wicks. Although he hasn’t been lighting up the stat sheet recently, he has faced limited opportunities, often running fewer than 50% of routes. However, with Romeo Doubs leaving Week 12 with a concussion, Wicks could step into a more significant role. If Doubs misses time, Wicks could become a full-time player, offering some much-needed Flex appeal. He has shown the ability to earn targets, and if he can clean up his drops, he could be a valuable addition to your roster.
Jeremy McNichols, RB, Washington Commanders (1% Rostered)
Next up is Jeremy McNichols. With Brian Robinson Jr. nursing an ankle injury that looked concerning, McNichols could see an expanded role if Robinson is sidelined. He’s worth stashing on your bench while keeping an eye on the Commanders’ practice reports. If Robinson or Austin Ekeler, who also left with a concussion, misses time, McNichols could be thrust into a significant role.
Russell Wilson, Pittsburgh Steelers (36% Rostered)
Now, let’s talk about Russell Wilson. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, throwing multiple touchdowns in two of his five starts this season. This week, he faces the Bengals, a defense that has allowed multiple passing touchdowns six times this year. With the Bengals ranking as a top-10 matchup for quarterbacks, Wilson has a golden opportunity to capitalize on this secondary.
Who are the top quarterback waiver wire targets?
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars (36% Rostered)
Trevor Lawrence is another name to consider. Despite conflicting reports about his health, he’s worth stashing. Before his shoulder injury, Lawrence was on fire, scoring over 20 points in three of his last five games. His combination of rushing ability and arm talent makes him a potential fantasy QB1 in favorable matchups.
Who are the other top running back waiver wire targets?
Blake Corum, Los Angeles Rams (14% Rostered)
As we approach the playoffs, it’s crucial to have high-upside handcuffs on your bench. Blake Corum fits the bill perfectly. If Kyren Williams misses time, Corum could easily step into a starting role and become a weekly RB1. Instead of holding onto a WR5 or TE2, consider stashing Corum for those crucial playoff weeks.
Roschon Johnson, Chicago Bears (29% Rostered)
Roschon Johnson is another running back to keep an eye on. Following the firing of Shane Waldron, he has taken over short-yardage rushing duties, including goal-line carries. With two touchdowns in the last two weeks, he could be a valuable emergency starter, especially with six teams on bye in Week 14.
Who are the other top wide receiver waiver wire targets?
Rashod Bateman, WR, Baltimore Ravens (32% Rostered)
Rashod Bateman has emerged as a big-play threat for Lamar Jackson. With five finishes as a WR3 or better this season, he can be a high-upside Flex option, especially with six teams on bye in Week 14.
Devaughn Vele, WR, Denver Broncos (5% Rostered)
The rookie Devaughn Vele has been making waves recently, racking up 146 yards on 10 receptions over the past two weeks. If he can secure a more significant role, he could become a reliable option behind Courtland Sutton. Keep an eye on him, especially after Sean Payton’s recent praise.
David Moore, Carolina Panthers (0% Rostered)
In a surprising turn, David Moore had his best game of the year against the Chiefs, catching six passes for 80 yards and a touchdown. While this could be an anomaly, he’s worth a look in deeper leagues.
Noah Brown, Washington Commanders (10% Rostered)
Noah Brown continues to compete for targets, and his recent performance shows promise. With a solid target share, he could be a viable option in leagues with deep benches.
Who are the other top tight end waiver wire targets?
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots (48% Rostered)
Hunter Henry has been a consistent target for the Patriots, leading the team in targets in Week 12. With his volume, he provides a respectable floor and could benefit from the playmaking ability of Drake Maye.
Zach Ertz, Washington Commanders (48% Rostered)
Despite being rostered in less than 50% of leagues, Zach Ertz has delivered TE1 performances consistently. With at least seven targets in four of his last five games, he’s a reliable option with a steady floor.
Who are the top defense waiver wire targets and streamers?
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (54% Rostered)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may not be the most fearsome defense this season, but a matchup against the Panthers can change that. With the Panthers struggling to move the ball, the Buccaneers could be a sneaky play this week.
Los Angeles Rams (23% Rostered)
Lastly, the Los Angeles Rams could be a solid streaming option against the Saints. With a limited arsenal of weapons, the Rams might just be the defense to shut down the Saints’ offense.
As you prepare for Week 13, keep these players in mind. The waiver wire can be a treasure trove of potential, and with the right moves, you can turn your fantasy season around!
